Systems, Methods And Articles For Enhancing Wellness Associated With Habitable Environments

ABSTRACT

Environmental characteristics of habitable environments (e.g., hotel or motel rooms, spas, resorts, cruise boat cabins, offices, hospitals and/or homes, apartments or residences) are controlled to eliminate, reduce or ameliorate adverse or harmful aspects and introduce, increase or enhance beneficial aspects in order to improve a “wellness” or sense of “wellbeing” provided via the environments. Control of intensity and wavelength distribution of passive and active Illumination addresses various issues, symptoms or syndromes, for instance to maintain a circadian rhythm or cycle, adjust for “jet lag” or season affective disorder, etc. Air quality and attributes are controlled. Scent(s) may be dispersed. Hypoallergenic items (e.g., bedding, linens) may be used. Water quality is controlled. Noise is reduced and sounds (e.g., masking, music, natural) may be provided. Passive and active pathogen controls are employed. Controls are provided for the occupant and/or facility personnel, as is instruction, and surveys, including assessing wellness.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/421,022, filed Jan. 31, 2017, and is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 15/409,233, filed Jan. 18, 2017, both of which arecontinuations of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/012,444, filed Aug. 28,2013, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,715,242 on Jul. 15, 2017, whichclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/694,125, filedAug. 28, 2012, all of which are incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety.

BACKGROUND Field

This disclosure generally relates to habitable environments, forinstance homes, hotel or motels, offices and hospitals, and particularlyto techniques for enhancing human habitation in such environments.

Description of the Related Art

Most people spend significant amounts of time in habitable environmentssuch as enclosed spaces associated with homes, apartments, condominiumunits, hotel suites or rooms, motel suites or rooms, spas, hospital, andother public and private facilities. Sometimes these enclosed spaces arecontrolled, or even owned by, the principal occupants, such as homes,apartments or condominium units. Other times these enclosed spaces arecontrolled by others, for example a facility owner or operator who mayown and/or operate a hotel, motel, spa, hospital.

Significant time in these spaces exposes the occupant to a wide range ofenvironmental factors, any of which may have either adverse orbeneficial effects on the occupant's health, well-being or sense ofwell-being. Minimizing exposure to environmental factors that tend tohave an adverse effect is desirable, as is increasing exposure toenvironmental factors that tend to have a beneficial effect.

New approaches that enhance habitable environments are desirable.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Various approaches described herein employ combinations of passive andactive techniques for enhancing environmental characteristics ofinhabitable environments, to reduce or ameliorate adverse effects and toincrease beneficial effects. These approaches may have specificapplication in hospitality settings, for instance hotel or motel rooms,spas, resorts, cruise boat cabins, and extended stay suites. Theseapproaches may have application in occupational environments, forinstance offices, retail locations, factories or warehouses. Theseapproaches may have application in residential settings, for instancehomes, apartments, porches, condominiums or other residences. Theseapproaches may have application in other settings, for instancehospitals or clinics, waiting areas associated with transportation suchas airports and train stations, and/or public areas such as theaters,arenas, stadiums, museums and other venues. The various combinations mayadvantageously produce synergistic results, which may not be otherwiseachievable on an individual basis.

A system to control environmental characteristics in an enclosed spacemay be summarized as including a control subsystem that includes atleast one processor and at least one nontransitory processor-readablemedium that stores at least one of processor-executable instructions ordata; an illumination subsystem operable to control illuminationcharacteristics of illumination provided in at least a portion of theenclosed spaced, the illumination subsystem including: a plurality ofillumination sources selectively operable to emit illumination at anumber of levels and a number of wavelengths; at least one actuatoroperable to control an amount of illumination received into the enclosedspace via one or more windows from an external source of illumination;and at least one user actuatable input device located in the enclosedspace and communicatively coupled to the control subsystem andselectively actuatable by a user to switch between a circadian settingand at least one override setting, wherein: the control subsystem iscommunicatively coupled to control the plurality of illumination sourcesand the at least one actuator, and when in the circadian setting thecontrol subsystem provides signals to the illumination sources and theat least one actuator to cause the illumination sources and the at leastone actuator to provide illumination according to a defined circadianpattern over a period of time, the circadian pattern at leastapproximately matching changes in illumination level and colortemperature of naturally occurring illumination of at least one definedlatitude over the period of time.

At least one actuator may include electrochromatic glass in the at leastone window. At least one actuator may include an electric motorphysically coupled to a transmission that selectively positions at leastone blackout shade across the at least one window. In a night portion ofthe circadian pattern, the control subsystem may provide signals to atleast a subset of the illumination sources which are, for examplesolid-state illumination sources or small incandescent lights to producea low level of illumination proximate at least one path to a door of theenclosed space. When in a first override setting of the at least oneoverride setting the control subsystem may provide signals to theillumination sources and the at least one actuator to cause theillumination sources and the at least one actuator to provideillumination that does not follow the defined circadian pattern. When ina second override setting of the at least one override setting thecontrol subsystem may provide signals to the illumination sources andthe at least one actuator to cause the illumination sources and the atleast one actuator to provide illumination to the enclosed space basedat least in part on a geographic location from where an occupant of theenclosed spaced originated to accommodate a change in circadian rhythmdue to travel by the occupant. When in a third override setting of theat least one override setting the control subsystem may provide signalsto the illumination sources and the at least one actuator to cause theillumination sources and the at least one actuator to provideillumination to the enclosed space based at least in part on a time ofyear to accommodate a change in circadian rhythm due to seasonalvariation at a geographic location of the enclosed space. When in yetanother override setting of the at least one override setting thecontrol subsystem may provide signals to the illumination sources andthe at least one actuator to cause the illumination sources and the atleast one actuator to provide illumination to the enclosed space toproduce a therapeutic effect in an occupant of the enclosed space. Thesystem may further include at least one sensor positioned to detectpresence of an occupant in the enclosed spaced and communicativelycoupled to the control subsystem to provide signals indicative of acurrent occupancy condition of the enclosed space. The system mayfurther include at least one user actuatable input device locatedremotely from the enclosed space and communicatively coupled to thecontrol subsystem and selectively actuatable to switch between aplurality of settings for the system. The system may further include anair handling subsystem to control air characteristics of air in theenclosed space, the air handling system including at least one of: anair filter, a heater, an air conditioner, a humidifier, a dehumidifier,a vent, a fan, or a compressor, and the air handling system including atleast one of: a temperature sensor or a humidity sensor positioned todetect a temperature or a humidity proximate at least one portion of theenclosed space. The control subsystem may provide signals to at leastone portion of the air handling subsystem to control at least one of thetemperature or the humidity of air in the enclosed space. The controlsubsystem may provide signals to adjust at least the temperature of theair in the enclosed space based at least in part on the circadianpattern over the period of time. The at least one air filter may includeat least one of: a HEPA mechanical air filter, an electrostatic particleair filter, or an ultraviolet air filter. The air handling subsystem mayfurther include a number of inlets for selectively introducing scentsinto the air in the enclosed space from a number of reservoirs and thecontrol subsystem may provide signals to at least one portion of the airhandling subsystem to control the introduction of the scents into theair in the enclosed space. The control subsystem may provide signals toat least one portion of the air handling subsystem to control theintroduction of the scents into the air in the enclosed space based on adefined schedule. The control subsystem may provide signals to at leastone portion of the air handling subsystem to control the introduction ofthe scents into the air in the enclosed space on demand in response to auser input. The system may further include a water supply subsystemincluding a sediment filter and an activated charcoal filter thatfilters water that is to be supplied to the enclosed space via a faucetor a showerhead. The water supply subsystem may further include anultraviolet water sanitizer that illuminates water that is to besupplied to the enclosed space via a faucet or a showerhead withultraviolet illumination. The water supply subsystem may further includean inlet to supply vitamin C to water that is to be supplied to theenclosed space via a showerhead. The system may further include anambient sound subsystem, that may include at least one piece of acousticinsulation positioned to acoustically insulate at least some of a numberof plumbing components; at least one acoustic damping door thatacoustically insulates the enclosed space from an exterior thereof whenthe at least one acoustic damping door is in a closed position; at leastone acoustic damping window that acoustically insulates the enclosedspace from the exterior thereof when the at least one acoustic dampingwindow is in a closed position; at least one acoustic damping wallingcomponent that acoustically insulates the enclosed space from theexterior thereof; and at least one acoustic damping flooring componentthat acoustically insulates the enclosed space from the exteriorthereof. An ambient sound level in the enclosed space may be less than45 dB when active source of sound is operating in the enclosed space.The system may further include at least one speaker communicativelycoupled to be controlled by the control subsystem to play sound in theenclosed space at a sound level that changes in synchronization with achange in a level of illumination emitted by the illumination sources.The control subsystem may provide signals to gradually increase both thesound and illumination levels in response to an occurrence of a pre-settime. The system may further include a cushioned low volatile organiccompound emitting flooring in the enclosed space. The system may furtherinclude a textured reflexology flooring path in the enclosed space. Thesystem may further include at least one electromagnetic field shieldpositioned relative to wiring to reduce a level of electromagnetic fieldintroduced into the enclosed space by the wiring.

A method of controlling environmental characteristics in an enclosedspace may be summarized as including receiving at a first time a firstinput indicative of a selection of a circadian setting; in response tothe first input indicative of the selection of the circadian setting,providing signals by a control subsystem to cause a plurality ofillumination sources to emit artificial illumination at a number oflevels and a number of wavelengths and to cause at least one actuator tocontrol at least a level of natural illumination received into theenclosed space via one or more windows from an external source ofillumination such that a combination of the artificial and the naturalillumination varies over a first period of time according to a circadianpattern; receiving at a second time a second input indicative of aselection of a first non-circadian setting; and in response to thesecond input indicative of the selection of the first non-circadiansetting, providing signals by the control subsystem to cause a pluralityof illumination sources to emit artificial illumination at a number oflevels and a number of wavelengths and to cause at least one actuator tocontrol at least a level of natural illumination received into theenclosed space via one or more windows from an external source ofillumination such that a combination of the artificial and the naturalillumination does not vary over a second period of time according to thecircadian pattern.

In response to the second input indicative of the selection of the firstnon-circadian setting, the control subsystem may provide signals to theplurality of illumination sources and the at least one actuator suchthat the combination of the artificial and the natural illuminationremains constant over the second period of time. The method may furtherinclude receiving at a third time a third input indicative of aselection of a second non-circadian setting that is a sleep timesetting; and in response to the third input indicative of the secondnon-circadian setting that is the sleep time setting, providing signalsby the control subsystem to cause a subset of the illumination sourcesproximate to a floor in the enclosed space to emit artificialillumination at a low illumination level along at least one path and tocause the at least one actuator to prevent natural illumination frombeing received into the enclosed space via the one or more windows. Themethod may further include receiving at a fourth time a fourth inputindicative of a selection of a travel adjustment setting; in response tothe fourth input indicative of the travel adjustment setting:determining a travel adjustment illumination pattern based at least inpart on a geographic location from where an occupant of the enclosedspaced originated to accommodate a change in circadian rhythm due totravel by the occupant; and providing signals by the control subsystemto cause the illumination sources to emit artificial illumination at thelevels and the wavelengths and to cause the at least one actuator tocontrol at least the level of natural illumination received into theenclosed space via the one or more windows such that the combination ofthe artificial and the natural illumination achieves the determinedtravel adjustment illumination pattern in the enclosed space. The methodmay further include receiving at a fourth time a fourth input indicativeof a selection of a light therapy setting; and in response to the fourthinput indicative of the light setting, providing signals by the controlsubsystem to cause the illumination sources to emit artificialillumination at the levels and the wavelengths and to cause the at leastone actuator to control at least the level of natural illuminationreceived into the enclosed space via the one or more windows such thatthe combination of the artificial and the natural illumination achievesthe defined light therapy illumination pattern in the enclosed spaceover a therapeutic period of time. Providing signals by the controlsubsystem to cause the at least one actuator to control at least thelevel of natural illumination received into the enclosed space via theone or more windows may include providing signals to vary an amount ofillumination passed by at least one pane of electrochromatic material.Providing signals by the control subsystem to cause the at least oneactuator to control at least the level of natural illumination receivedinto the enclosed space via the one or more windows may includeproviding signals to control an electrical motor drivingly coupled tomove at least one of a shade or a curtain relative to the at least onewindow. The method may further include detecting by at least one sensorwhether the enclosed spaced is occupied; and providing signals to thecontrol subsystem indicative of whether the enclosed space is occupied.The method may further include receiving input by at least one useractuatable input device located remotely from the enclosed space; andproviding signals to the control subsystem indicative of the receivedinput. The method may further include providing signals by the controlsubsystem to at least one component of an air handling subsystem tocontrol air characteristics of air in the enclosed space. Providingsignals to at least one component of the air handling subsystem mayinclude providing signals to at least one of an air filter, a heater, anair conditioner, a humidifier, a dehumidifier, a vent, a fan, or acompressor to control at least one of the temperature or the humidity ofair in the enclosed space. The method may further include receivingsignals by the control subsystem from at least one of: a temperaturesensor or a humidity sensor positioned to detect a temperature or ahumidity proximate at least one portion of the enclosed space. Providingsignals to at least one component of the air handling subsystem mayinclude providing signals to adjust at least a temperature of the air inthe enclosed space based at least in part on the circadian pattern overthe period of time. The method may further include filtering air for theenclosed space with at least one of: a HEPA mechanical air filter, anelectrostatic particle air filter, or an ultraviolet air filter. Themethod may further include providing signals by the control subsystem toselectively introduce scents into the air in the enclosed space from anumber of reservoirs. Providing signals by the control subsystem toselectively introduce scents into the air in the enclosed space mayinclude providing signals based on a defined schedule. Providing signalsby the control subsystem to selectively introduce scents into the air inthe enclosed space may include providing signals based on demand inresponse to a user input. The method may further include filtering asupply of water to a faucet or a showerhead of the enclosed space via awater supply subsystem including at least one of a sediment filter or anactivated charcoal filter, and exposing the water to ultravioletillumination to sanitize the water. The method may further includeintroducing vitamin C into water that is to be supplied to theshowerhead of the enclosed space. The method may further includesupplying signals by the controller subsystem to at least one speaker toplay sound in the enclosed space at a sound level that changes insynchronization with a change in a level of illumination emitted by theillumination sources.

A system to enhance environmental characteristics in a habitableenvironment may be summarized as including at least one acoustic dampingwindow that acoustically insulates the habitable environment from theexterior thereof when the at least one acoustic damping window is in aclosed position; at least one acoustic damping walling component thatacoustically insulates the habitable environment from the exteriorthereof; at least one acoustic damping flooring component thatacoustically insulates the habitable environment from the exteriorthereof; and at least one speaker selectively operable to play sound inthe habitable environment.

The system may further include a plurality of illumination sourcesselectively operable to emit artificial illumination at a number oflevels and a number of wavelengths in the habitable environment; atleast one actuator operable to control an amount of illuminationreceived into the habitable environment via one or more windows from anexternal source of natural illumination. The system may further includea control subsystem communicatively coupled to control the plurality ofillumination sources, the at least one actuator, and the at least onespeaker. The system may further include at least one acoustic dampingdoor that acoustically insulates the habitable environment from anexterior thereof when the at least one acoustic damping door is in aclosed position. The system may further include a photocatalystantimicrobial agent on at least one surface in the habitableenvironment.

A method of controlling environmental characteristics in a habitableenvironment may be summarized as including distributing an antimicrobialagent in the habitable environment prior to occupancy of the habitableenvironment by a first occupant; subjecting surfaces in the habitableenvironment to ultraviolet illumination prior to occupancy of thehabitable environment by the first occupant; applying antimicrobialbedding to a bed in the habitable environment prior to occupancy of thehabitable environment by the first occupant; and setting an illuminationpattern that controls both artificial and natural illumination providedin the habitable environment based on at least one characteristic of thefirst occupant.

The method may further include setting a sound pattern that controlsartificial sound provided in the habitable environment based on at leastone characteristic of the first occupant. Setting a sound pattern mayinclude setting a sound pattern that is synchronized at least in part tothe illumination pattern that controls both artificial and naturalillumination provided in the habitable environment based on at least onecharacteristic of the first occupant. The method may further includeremoving the antimicrobial agent from the habitable environment prior tooccupancy of the habitable environment by the first occupant.Distributing an antimicrobial agent in the habitable environment mayinclude distributing a photocatalytic antimicrobial agent; and mayfurther include exposing the antimicrobial agent to a defined wavelengthof illumination for a defined time prior to occupancy of the habitableenvironment by the first occupant. The method may further includeproviding treated water to the habitable environment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings, identical reference numbers identify similar elementsor acts. The sizes and relative positions of elements in the drawingsare not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the shapes of variouselements and angles are not drawn to scale, and some of these elementsare arbitrarily enlarged and positioned to improve drawing legibility.Further, the particular shapes of the elements as drawn, are notintended to convey any information regarding the actual shape of theparticular elements, and have been solely selected for ease ofrecognition in the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a habitable environment according toone illustrated embodiment, including enlarged views of various elementsor components of the habitable environment.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram that shows a portion of a habitableenvironment enhancement system to enhance a habitable environment,according to one illustrated embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram that shows a high level method of providing anenhanced environment in a habitable environment, according to oneillustrated embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a flow diagram that shows a low level method of operating oneor more components of a habitable environment enhancement system forproviding illumination, according to one illustrated embodiment, whichmay be useful in performing at least a portion of the method illustratedin FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram that shows a low level method of operating oneor more components of a habitable environment enhancement system toadjust an amount of natural light received in the habitable environmentusing electrochromatic panes, according to one illustrated embodiment,which may be useful in performing at least a portion of the methodillustrated in FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram that shows a low level method of operating oneor more components of a habitable environment enhancement system toadjust an amount of natural light received in the habitable environmentusing drapes, shades or curtains, according to one illustratedembodiment, which may be useful in performing at least a portion of themethod illustrated in FIG. 4.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram that shows a low level method of operating oneor more components of a habitable environment enhancement system forproviding heating, ventilation and cooling of a habitable environment,according to one illustrated embodiment, which may be useful inperforming at least a portion of the method illustrated in FIG. 3.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram that shows a low level method of operating oneor more components of a habitable environment enhancement system forintroducing scents or aromas into a habitable environment, according toone illustrated embodiment, which may be useful in performing at least aportion of the method illustrated in FIG. 3.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram that shows a low level method of operating oneor more components of a habitable environment enhancement system fortreating water for use in a habitable environment, according to oneillustrated embodiment, which may be useful in performing at least aportion of the method illustrated in FIG. 3.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram that shows a low level method of operating oneor more components of a habitable environment enhancement system foradjusting an acoustical aspect of a habitable environment, according toone illustrated embodiment, which may be useful in performing at least aportion of the method illustrated in FIG. 3.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, certain specific details are set forth inorder to provide a thorough understanding of various disclosedembodiments. However, one skilled in the relevant art will recognizethat embodiments may be practiced without one or more of these specificdetails, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In otherinstances, well-known structures associated with environmental controlsuch as fans, blowers, heaters, coolers such as air conditioners orswamp coolers, compressors, and control systems such as computingsystems, as well as networks and other communications channels have notbeen shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuringdescriptions of the embodiments.

Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification andclaims which follow, the word “comprise” and variations thereof, suchas, “comprises” and “comprising” are to be construed in an open,inclusive sense, that is, as “including, but not limited to.”

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “anembodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristicdescribed in connection with the embodiment is included in at least oneembodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or“in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification arenot necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, theparticular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined inany suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singularforms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the contentclearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term “or”is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the contentclearly dictates otherwise.

The headings and Abstract of the Disclosure provided herein are forconvenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning of theembodiments.

Environment Overview

FIG. 1 shows a habitable environment 100, according to one illustratedembodiment in which various apparatus, methods and articles describedherein may operate.

The habitable environment 100 may take the form of one or more enclosedspaces, such as one or more rooms, for instance in a house, hotel, spa,condominium unit, apartment, office, hospital, or other accommodationwhich people typically inhabit.

The habitable environment 100 includes a floor system 102, wall system104, and ceiling system 106, and may include one or more doors 108 a,108 b (collectively 108) and/or windows 110 a, 110 b (collectively 110).The doors 108 may provide ingress and egress to an exterior environment,or may provide ingress and egress to other enclosed spaces within thehabitable environment 100. For instance, one door 108 a may providepassage between the habitable environment 100 and a hallway (not calledout) outside of the habitable environment 100. Another door 108 b mayprovide passage between one portion and another portion of the habitableenvironment 100, such as between a bedroom or living area 100 a and abathroom 100 b.

The door 108 a to the exterior may have a handle 112 a with associatedlock, for instance a cardkey entry lock 112 b. Cardkey entry lock 112 breads an identifier either encoded in a magnetic stripe or in a wirelesstransponder (e.g., radio frequency identification or RFID transponder orsmartcard) of a cardkey 114. The identifier may be logically associatedwith an inhabitant or occupant of the habitable environment 100. Forexample, a hotel guest may be assigned to a given suite, and issued acardkey 114 that provides access to the suite. The identity of the guestmay be stored in a database or other data structure with a logicalrelationship (e.g., key, pointer) to the suite. Likewise, variousattributes of the guest may be stored in the database or other datastructure, logically associated with the identity of the guest. Asexplained below, this may allow various aspects of the habitableenvironment 100 to be customized for the particular occupant.

As illustrated, the habitable environment 100 may be a suite, with acombined sleeping and living area 100 a, and a separate bathroom 100 b.The habitable environment 100 may include various pieces of furniture orfixtures. For example, the habitable environment 100 may include a bed116, dresser 118, end tables 120 a, 120 b (collectively 120). Also forexample, the habitable environment 100 include a bathtub or shower 122,sinks 124 a, 124 b (collectively 124), commode 126 and optionally towelracks 128 in the bathroom portion 100 b. The bath or shower 122 may havea faucet 130, showerhead 132 and control handle 134. The control handle134 is operable to control a flow of water via the faucet 130 and/orshowerhead 132, from a supply of water (not shown in FIG. 1). Thesink(s) may have a faucet 136 and control handle(s) 138. The controlhandle(s) 138 is operable to control a flow of water via the faucet 136from a supply of water (not shown in FIG. 1). The habitable environment100 may additionally include one or more closets 140.

The habitable environment 100 may include a number of components (e.g.,devices, articles, structures) which contribute to a wellness or senseof wellness of the occupant of the habitable environment 100. Some ofthese components are active components, driven in response to commandsor signals, while other components are passive components. Thesecomponents are brought together as a system, in order to providesynergistic results, thereby enhancing a health, wellness or sense ofwellbeing of an inhabitant or occupant of a habitable environment orenclosed space. The various components are discussed below withreference to FIGS. 1 and 2, and exemplary operation of such arediscussed below with reference to FIGS. 3-10.

The habitable environment 100 may include a number of active componentsoperable to achieve desired environmental characteristics, for examplerelated to illumination, heating, ventilation and air conditioning(HVAC), water treatment, and acoustics.

Controlled lighting or illumination is one aspect of achieving thedesired environmental characteristics of the habitable environment 100.Thus, the habitable environment 100 may include a number of artificialluminaires 142 a-142 e (collectively 142), which are controlled toproduce desired output, for example by varying intensity and/orcomposition of wavelengths or color. Luminaires 142 may take a varietyof forms, for example lamps (e.g., tabletop, floor standing) 142 a, 142b, sconces 142 c, 142 d, and/or overhead lighting 142 e. The luminaires142 may employ a variety of illumination sources 144, for exampleincandescent lights, florescent lights, compact florescent lights, andlight emitting diode (LED) lighting. The luminaires 142 may optionallyinclude ballasts (e.g., electronic ballasts) and/or other electrical orelectronic components required for operation. The luminaires 142 mayalso include various passive and/or active thermal management componentsto remove heat, thereby prolonging the operational life of theluminaires 142. Each luminaire 142 may include a plurality of individualillumination or light sources 144, respective ones or sets of theillumination sources 144 operable to emit light in a respective range ofwavelengths. Some of the ranges may overlap, while other ranges may ormay not overlap. The ones or sets of the illumination sources 144 may beindividually operable to achieve any desired distribution of wavelengthsat any given time. Each luminaire 142 may include one or more intensityadjustment circuits (e.g., dimmer circuits), which may take a largevariety of forms depending on the type of illumination sources 144employed. For example, an adjustable resistance type dimmer switch maybe employed with incandescent sources, while a more sophisticated pulsewidth modulation technique may be used to control intensity of LEDsources.

The habitable environment 100 may additionally or alternatively includea number of components which are controlled to adjust natural lightbeing received in the habitable environment 100 via one or more windows110 from an exterior thereof for example from a natural source of light(e.g., the Sun). These may include electrochromatic panes 146 in thewindow 110 a and associated actuator, for instance a voltage source 148coupled to control a transmissivity of the electrochromatic panes 146.Electrochromatic panes 146 may commonly be referred to aselectrochromatic glass, but the embodiments herein are not intended tobe limited to glass. These may include one or more drapes, shades orcurtains or other window coverings (collectively window covering 150)and an actuator such as an electric motor 152 coupled by a transmission154 to drive the window covering along a track 156 relative to thewindow(s) 110 b.

Various approaches to illumination and components to provideillumination are discussed below, with reference to FIGS. 2 and 4-6.

HVAC is another aspect by which the desired environmentalcharacteristics of the habitable environment 100 may be achieved. Thus,the habitable environment 100 may include a number of vents 158 a-158 b(only three shown, collectively 158) that provide air to the habitableenvironment 100 or portions thereof having desired air temperature,humidity, and/or air quality. At least one of the vents 158 mayselectively supply scent(s) to the habitable environment 100 or aportion thereof. Various air treatments and components for treating airare discussed below, with reference to FIGS. 2 and 7.

Likewise, water is yet another aspect by which the desired environmentalcharacteristics of the habitable environment 100 may be achieved. Thus,the habitable environment 100 may include a number of faucets 130, 136and/or showerheads 132 which supply water which has been treated in avariety of ways to enhance wellness. Various water treatments andcomponents for treating water are discussed below, with reference toFIGS. 2 and 9.

The habitable environment 100 may include a number of passive componentsto achieve desired environmental characteristics, for example related toflooring system 102, wall system 104, ceiling system 106, acoustics, airquality (e.g., zero or low VOC emitting), and hygiene or sanitation(e.g., anti-pathogen). Many of these are discussed below.

The habitable environment 100 may include flooring system 102, wallsystem 104 and/or ceiling system 106 designed to achieve a variety ofbenefits. For example, the flooring system 102, wall system 104 and/orceiling system 106 designed to reduce exposure to noise.

Loud environments have become a part of modern life. Fans, overheadplanes, passing traffic, and loud neighbors all contribute to ambientnoise conditions in the home. About half of Americans live in areaswhere background noise is above 55 decibels (dB)—a level that mostconsider bothersome. On the logarithmic decibel scale, 0 dB is the pointwhere sounds become discernible to the human ear, and every increase of10 dB increases the sound pressure level by a factor of 10. Regularexposure to 85 dB for over eight hours at a time can lead to permanenthearing loss. In outdoor urban spaces not immediately adjacent to anysound generators the background noise is often close to 40 db. The WorldHealth Organization recommends an ambient sound level of under 45 dBinside homes and 30 dB for bedrooms.

Thus, the habitable environment 100 may include various passiveapproaches to achieve the benefit of reduced noise.

Much of the bothersome noise in homes originates from the outside, soacoustic barriers are an important part of overall sound balance. Manyof the same technologies that provide effective thermal insulation inwalls and windows concurrently block noise. This allows for acousticprotection solutions, while incurring little additional cost. Inaddition, floor lining reduces sound transmission between apartments andimproves perceptions of privacy.

For example, the habitable environment 100 may include a flooring system102 designed to achieve a variety of benefits. The flooring system 102may include floor covering 160, subflooring 162, and optionallyacoustically damping floor mounts 164 coupling the flooring 160 to thesubflooring 162. The flooring system 102 may include one or moreadditional layers of flooring 166, which provides a resilient member orlayer(s) (e.g., cork), as discussed below. The flooring system 102 mayinclude baffle material or insulation (not illustrated), for instancebetween the additional layer of flooring 166 and the subflooring 162.The flooring system 102 may additionally or alternatively include padsor sheets of material (not shown) that acoustically isolate sources ofvibration (e.g., vibrating appliances such as washing machines).

The flooring system 102 uses non-toxic, natural materials that areintended to absorb the sound of footfalls and other vibrations, andprovide isolation from exterior or interior sound.

Also for example, the habitable environment 100 may include a wallsystem 104 designed to achieve acoustic damping. The wall system 104 mayinclude specially constructed walls which incorporate resilient channels168, double-wallboard or sheetrock 170, double-studs 172, and acousticinsulation designed to decrease sound transmission. The resilientchannels 168 resilient couple the double-wallboard or sheetrock 170 tothe double-studs 172 to reduce transmission of vibration.

As another example, the habitable environment 100 may employacoustically damping doors 108. For instance, solid oak doors thattightly seal to a door frame, may achieve sound reduction on par withwell-constructed walls.

As a further example, the habitable environment 100 may employ acousticdamping windows 110. For instance triple glazed windows 110 with vacuumor rare earth gases trapped therebetween may minimize sound transmissionfrom the exterior.

As yet a further example, the habitable environment 100 may employacoustically damping plumbing insulation 174. For instance, non-toxicblankets of acoustically damping material 174 may be wrapped aroundwater pipes (not shown) and air ducts 176 to reduce the soundtransmitted by metal conduits.

The health effects of flooring have become the focus of a growing numberof studies. Research shows that standing on surfaces without any give orcushioning for extended periods of time forces muscles into a constantstate of flexion. This decreases circulation, promotes bad posture,causes lower back pain and can lead to orthopedic ailments. Cushionedmats decrease the impact on joints and promote muscle relaxation.

The habitable environment 100 may employ a cushion-lined flooring system102 in order to realize a number of benefits, including increasedcirculation and promotion of healthy posture. The result may be fewerreports of joint pain, discomfort, and low energy. In addition, standingon softer surfaces decreases the risk of developing plantar fasciitis,and can alleviate symptoms for those already suffering from thecondition. The flooring system 102 should be soft or resilient enough toallow for underfoot comfort, yet strong enough to improve lumbarsupport. The flooring system 102 consists of floating construction, forexample with cork under layer(s) 166 to reduce forces generated fromimpacts by increased deflection.

Reflexology is a traditional practice of massage, which aims to reducethe symptoms of various ailments. Practitioners use stimulation ofspecific areas of the hands and feet to reduce tension and stress.Evidence has shown that the practice of reflexology has powerful anxietyreduction with reduced blood pressure and pulse rates. The habitableenvironment 100 may employ a custom-designed pathway (e.g., bathroompathway), with textured floor covering 178, designed to improve bloodcirculation and general wellbeing by encouraging reflexology therapy.

Due to large surface area, floor finishing can often be a major sourceof VOCs. The habitable environment 100 uses natural flooring materialschosen to reduce the emissions of harmful indoor air pollutants andvolatile organic compounds.

Electromagnetic fields (EMF) are created when charged particles are inmotion. The movement of electrical charge through wires and appliancescreates electromagnetic fields. The strength of the electric fielddepends on the voltage (e.g. typically 120 V for households) and ispresent near live wires, whether or not an electrical appliance is inuse. Research suggests that long-term and significant occupationalexposure to EMF may increase the risk of both Alzheimer's disease andbreast cancer.

Thus, EMF shielding is incorporated into the habitable environment 100.The EMF shields are designed to block the spread of the field bycreating a barrier composed of conductive or magnetic materials. EMFshields have traditionally been made out of solid metal, though thisposes challenges regarding weight, corrosion, and malleability. Treatedmetal mesh or screens with openings smaller than the electromagneticwavelength may provide a more practical solution.

Thus, for example the habitable environment 100 may include EMFshielding for wiring. In particular, wiring may be insulated with foilwraps designed to shield EMF from occupied parts of the habitableenvironment 100. Also for example, low EMF electrical wiring may beemployed.

Another passive approach takes advantage of anti-bacterial oranti-pathogen (i.e., “treated”) materials to reduce or eliminate thepresence of bacteria or pathogens. The anti-bacterial or anti-pathogenmaterials may be incorporated into or deposited on bedding (e.g.,sheets, bedspreads, throws, pillows, pillow covers) 180, windowcoverings (e.g., drapes, shades, curtains) 150 and/or surfaces (e.g.,counters 181, tubs or shower stalls 122, table tops 120, walls 104). Forexample, various materials may be impregnated or coated withanti-bacterial or anti-pathogen materials. These materials may haveopening or pore sizes on the order of 1 micron, providing an effectivebarrier against penetration by various undesirable particles. Any seamsin the bedding should be sealed. At least in the case of bedding, thesematerials preferably completely encase or envelope mattress, boxsprings, pillows, and/or comforters. Such may provide protection againstbedbugs, allergens, and/or dust mites.

Examples of suitable materials may contain or include, silver (Ag) inionic form, which has proven effective against a variety of pathogens.

In order to reduce exposure to pathogens and toxins without excessiveuse of chemicals or cleaning, the amenities below lower the effortrequired in maintaining a healthy environment.

As a further example, titanium dioxide nanoparticles have emerged as aneffective means of reducing air pollutants through a photocatalyst whichcreates a self-cleaning surface powered by ambient light exposure. Forexample, the nanoparticles may catalyze a reaction converting VOCs toharmless carbon dioxide. Such may be incorporated into a photo-catalyticcoating which may be used on walls to break down bacteria, virus, andVOCs when exposed to light.

The habitable environment 100 may include anti-bacterial oranti-pathogen materials as structural materials. For example, cedar maybe employed in closets and/or used as baseboards. Certain species ofcedar act as a natural pest control, repelling many insects. Oilspresent in cedar wood have been shown to repel fungi (such as mold),bacteria, insects, termites, and ticks.

An ability to control a function or operation of at least the activecomponents may be useful in realizing the amenities and benefits offeredin the habitable environment 100. Thus, a number of user operableinput/output (I/O) devices, controls, panels or kiosks 182 may besupplied.

For example, an in-room user operable I/O panel 182 a may include adisplay (e.g., LCD) to display information. The in-room user operableI/O panel 182 a may include user actuatable controls (e.g., userselectable icons displayed on touch screen, keys, buttons) manipulationof which allows a user, for instance an occupant of the habitableenvironment 100, to select parameters or programs to execute to controlone or more of the environmental characteristics of the habitableenvironment 100.

Also for example, a mobile or handheld device 182 b may serve as an I/Odevice. The mobile or handheld device 182 b may include a display (e.g.,LCD) to display information and user actuatable controls (e.g., userselectable icons, keys, buttons) manipulation of which allows a user,for instance an occupant of the habitable environment 100 or facilitypersonnel, to select parameters or programs to execute to control one ormore of the environmental characteristics of the habitable environment100. The mobile or handheld device 182 b may be owned by the end user,for example the occupant. The mobile or handheld device 182 b mayexecute a downloaded customized application or “APP” thatcommunicatively interfaces via a wireless protocol (e.g., IEEE 802.11,BLUETOOTH®, WI-FI®).

Alternatively or additionally, a remote user operable I/O controls,panel or kiosk 182 c (FIG. 2) may include a display (e.g., LCD) todisplay information. The remote user operable I/O controls, panel orkiosk 182 c may include user actuatable controls (e.g., user selectableicons displayed on touch screen, keys, buttons) manipulation of whichallows a user, for instance personnel of the facility in which thehabitable environment 100 is located, to select parameters or programsto execute to control one or more of the environmental characteristicsof the habitable environment 100.

Information about the amenities and benefits afforded by the wellnesssystem in the habitable environment 100 may be useful in realizing thebenefits of such. Information may be provided via a server and presentedvia a variety of devices. For instance, information may be presented viaa television 184 for instance on a dedicated channel, via in-room orother display, panel or kiosk 182 a, via handheld device 182 b, etc.

System and Subsystems

FIG. 2 shows an active portion of an environmental control system 200for controlling environmental characteristics of a habitable environment100 (FIG. 1), according to one illustrated embodiment. FIG. 2 provides amore detailed representation of some of the components of FIG. 1.

The active portion of an environmental control system 200 includes anumber of subsystems. For example, the active portion may include acontrol subsystem 202, illumination subsystem 204, water treatmentsubsystem 206, air treatment subsystem 208, scent subsystem 210, soundsubsystem 212 input/output (I/O) subsystem 214. The active portion mayoptionally include a sanitizing subsystem 216, which as described belowmay be either build in or a fixture of the habitable environment 100, ormay be portable, being located in the habitable environment 100 onlyduring use. Each of the subsystems 202-216 and/or components arediscussed in turn below with reference to FIG. 2. Operation of many ofthese subsystems 202-216 and/or components are discussed with referenceto FIGS. 3-10 below.

The control subsystem 202 may take the form of a programmed computer orother processor-based system or device. For example, the controlsubsystem 202 may take the form of a conventional mainframe computer,mini-computer, workstation computer, personal computer (desktop orlaptop), or handheld computer.

The control subsystem 202 may include one or more processing units 220(one illustrated), nontransitory system memories 222 a-222 b(collectively 222) and a system bus 224 that couples various systemcomponents including the system memory 222 to the processing unit(s)220. The processing unit(s) 220 may be any logic processing unit, suchas one or more central processing units (CPUs), digital signalprocessors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs),field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic controllers(PLCs), etc. Non-limiting examples of commercially available computersystems include, but are not limited to, an 80x86, Pentium, or i7 seriesmicroprocessor from Intel Corporation, U.S.A., a PowerPC microprocessorfrom IBM, a Sparc microprocessor from Sun Microsystems, Inc., a PA-RISCseries microprocessor from Hewlett-Packard Company, or a 68xxx seriesmicroprocessor from Motorola Corporation. The system bus 224 can employany known bus structures or architectures, including a memory bus withmemory controller, a peripheral bus, and a local bus. The system memory222 includes nontransitory Flash or read-only memory (“ROM”) 222 a andnontransitory random access memory (“RAM”) 222 b. A basic input/outputsystem (“BIOS”) 226 a, which can form part of the ROM 222 a or RAM 222b, contains basic routines that help transfer information betweenelements within the control subsystem 202, such as during start-up.

The control subsystem 202 may include a hard disk drive 228 a forreading from and writing to a hard disk 228 b, an optical disk drive 230a for reading from and writing to removable optical disks 230 b, and/ora magnetic disk drive 232 a for reading from and writing to magneticdisks 232 b. The optical disk 230 b can be a CD/DVD-ROM, while themagnetic disk 232 b can be a magnetic floppy disk or diskette. The harddisk drive 228 a, optical disk drive 230 a and magnetic disk drive 232 amay communicate with the processing unit 220 via the system bus 224. Thehard disk drive 230 a, optical disk drive 230 a and magnetic disk drive232 a may include interfaces or controllers (not shown) coupled betweensuch drives and the system bus 224, as is known by those skilled in therelevant art. The drives 228 a, 230 a and 232 a, and their associatedcomputer-readable storage media 228 b, 230 b, 232 b, may providenonvolatile and non-transitory storage of computer readableinstructions, data structures, program engines and other data for theenvironmental control system 200. Although control subsystem 202 isillustrated employing a hard disk 228 a, optical disk 230 a and magneticdisk 232 a, those skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that othertypes of computer- or processor-readable storage media that can storedata accessible by a computer may be employed, such as magneticcassettes, flash memory, digital video disks (“DVD”), Bernoullicartridges, RAMs, ROMs, smart cards, etc. The hard disk 228 a may, forexample, store instructions and data for controlling the othersubsystems, for example based on specific aspects or characteristics ofan occupant of the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1), to provideenvironmental characteristics that promote the wellness or wellbeing ofthe occupant(s). The hard disk 228 a may, for example, storeinstructions and data for presenting information about the variousattributes and benefits provided by the active and passive components ormeasures, and instructions on how to use the environmental controlsystem 200 and the passive components to maximize enjoyment, comfort,and well-being.

Program engines can be stored in the system memory 222 b, such as anoperating system 236, one or more application programs 238, otherprograms or engines and program data. Application programs 238 mayinclude instructions that cause the processor(s) 220 to automaticallygenerate signals to control various of the other subsystems to achievevarious environmental characteristics in the habitable environment 100(FIG. 1), for example based on one or more aspects, characteristics orattributes of an occupant thereof. Application programs 238 may includeinstructions that cause the processor(s) 220 to automatically receiveinput and/or display output via various user operable input/output (I/O)devices, controls, panels or kiosks 182 or television 184.

Other program engines (not specifically shown) may include instructionsfor handling security such as password or other access protection andcommunications encryption. The system memory 220 may also includecommunications programs 240, for example, a server for permitting thecontrol subsystem 202 to provide services and exchange data with othersubsystems or computer systems or devices via the Internet, corporateintranets, extranets, or other networks (e.g., LANs, WANs), as well asother server applications on server computing systems such as thosediscussed further herein. The server in the depicted embodiment may bemarkup language based, such as Hypertext Markup Language (HTML),Extensible Markup Language (XML) or Wireless Markup Language (WML), andoperates with markup languages that use syntactically delimitedcharacters added to the data of a document to represent the structure ofthe document. A number of servers are commercially available such asthose from Microsoft, Oracle, IBM and Apple.

While shown in FIG. 2 as being stored in the system memory 222 b, theoperating system 236, application programs 238, other programs/engines,program data and communications applications (e.g., server, browser) 240can be stored on the hard disk 228 b of the hard disk drive 228 a, theoptical disk 230 b of the optical disk drive 230 a and/or the magneticdisk 232 b of the magnetic disk drive 232 a.

An operator can enter commands and information (e.g., configurationinformation, data or specifications) into the control subsystem 202 viavarious user operable input/output (I/O) devices, controls, panels orkiosks 182 or television 184, or through other input devices such as adedicated touch screen or keyboard (not shown) and/or a pointing devicesuch as a mouse (not shown), and/or via a graphical user interface.Other input devices can include a microphone, joystick, game pad,tablet, scanner, etc. These and other input devices are connected to oneor more of the processing units 220 through an interface such as aserial port interface 242 that couples to the system bus 224, althoughother interfaces such as a parallel port, a game port or a wirelessinterface or a universal serial bus (“USB”) can be used. A monitor orother display device is coupled to the system bus 224 via a videointerface, such as a video adapter (not shown). The control subsystem202 can include other output devices, such as speakers, printers, etc.

The control subsystem 202 can operate in a networked environment usinglogical connections to one or more remote computers and/or devices asdescribed above with reference to FIG. 1. For example, the controlsubsystem 202 can operate in a networked environment using logicalconnections to one or more other subsystems 204-214, one or more servercomputer systems 244 and associated nontransitory data storage device246. The server computer systems 244 and associated nontransitory datastorage device 246 may, for example, be controlled and operated by afacility (e.g., hotel, spa, apartment building, condominium building,hospital) in which the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) is located.Communications may be via wired and/or wireless network architectures,for instance, wired and wireless enterprise-wide computer networks,intranets, extranets, and the Internet. Thus, the control subsystem 202may include wireless communications components, for example one or moretransceivers or radios 248 and associated antenna(s) 250 for wireless(e.g. radio or microwave frequency communications, collected referred toherein as RF communications). Other embodiments may include other typesof communication networks including telecommunications networks,cellular networks, paging networks, and other mobile networks.

Illumination (e.g., electromagnetic radiation or energy with wavelengthsin the visible, near infrared (NIR) and/or near ultraviolet (NUV or UVA)portions of the electromagnetic spectrum) can have a significant effecton human health. As used herein and in the claims, the termsillumination or light include energy in the portions of theelectromagnetic spectrum which are visible to humans (e.g.,approximately 400 nm-approximately 700 nm) and not visible to humans(e.g., NIR or UVA). Light influences the human body in a number ofunconscious ways. Metabolism has been deeply linked to the daily solarcycle through melatonin and the endocrine system. This cycle in thehuman body is called the circadian rhythm. Humans and animals have aninternal clock that keeps the body on an approximately 24-hour cyclewhich matches the Earth's daily solar cycle, even in continuousdarkness. Multiple bodily processes, from periods of alertness and sleepto digestion efficiency, are partially regulated by the intensity andcolor of light received by the eyes. However, light adjusts thisinternal timing to align the person to the Earth's daily solar cycle.Exposure to light comparable to the intensity of direct sunlight lightwill aid in resetting the circadian rhythm if it has been upset by shiftwork or long distance travel.

The intensity and color of light impacts different systems of the body.For example, blue light impedes the body's production of melatonin, achemical messenger used to induce sleep. High intensities in the eveningdelay sleep, while light in the morning aids in waking. The appropriatebrightness and color also contribute to alertness and concentrationthroughout the day. Melatonin is a natural anti-oxidant and counteractsthe cancer-causing tendencies of free radicals. As a result, melatonindepletion from inappropriate exposure to bright lights leads to anincreased risk of cancer. Bright light during midday and dimmer light atdinnertime aid in the digestion of carbohydrates.

Additionally, many individuals suffer from light-related moodirregularities, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Properexposure to specific types of light at specific times addresses theseirregularities. Exposure in the morning to gradual light brighteningthrough dawn simulation has been shown to reduce depression. Daylightaids in the healthy development of eyesight. Myopia in children has beenlinked with low exposure to daylight and conversely, high reliance ondim artificial light. Age related macular degeneration, or thedeterioration of eyesight with age, particularly in seniors with blueeyes can be minimized by reducing the exposure to high colortemperature.

The illumination subsystem 204 may also be controlled to deliver lighttherapy, with or without topical photoactive substances. Such may, forexample be used to treat a variety of conditions, for instance SeasonalAffective Disorder (SAD). People who live in high latitudes oftenexperience depression during the winter as a result of long periods ofreduced sunlight, a condition identified as SAD. For those affected bySAD, measures of sleep efficiency in the winter are noticeably differentthan those in the summer. Light therapy may be especially effective attreating SAD, producing results comparable to treatment with medication.

Another condition or syndrome commonly referred to as “jet lag” resultsfrom the relative shift between the circadian rhythm and the daily solarcycle. The effects are a disruption of sleep and a significantdeterioration in mood, concentration, and cognitive performance.Controlled light exposure to help match the solar and circadian lightcycles can help alleviate these symptoms.

In some individuals, the body's production or interpretation ofmelatonin slightly varies relative to the solar cycle, resulting in aset of symptoms identified as Delayed Sleep-Phase Syndrome (DSPS).Approximately one tenth of all adolescents and some adults findthemselves falling asleep two to six hours after conventional bedtime.If left undisturbed, these individuals will often sleep soundly forapproximately eight hours before waking in the middle of the day.Controlled lighting may help treat DSPS.

Emerging research indicates that different brain activity occurs whenthe human body is exposed to different parts of the light spectrum.Color can subconsciously affect people's abilities to do different typesof tasks. For example, in one study, participants performed analyticaltasks better in red light, and were more creative in blue-coloredenvironments.

Research into workplace environments has found that people in brightlycolored offices had higher measured emotional status than those insubdued or neutral surroundings. On the other hand, studies have shownthat intense colors may be irritating to certain individuals.Chromotherapy employs illumination of certain wavelengths orcombinations of wavelengths as an effective manipulator of mood givenindividual preferences. Practitioners use this therapy to address issuessuch as meditation, intuition, speech, nervousness and anxiety.

The illumination subsystem 204 may be operated to provide dynamic customcoloring throughout the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) or a portionthereof in order to provide chromotherapy. Additionally, the habitableenvironment 100 (FIG. 1) may optionally employ a chromotherapy wall washin the form of a wall colored by light (e.g., via cover lights orsconces) that dynamically changes color to create a desired lightspectrum for different settings and times of day. Additionally oralternatively, chromotherapy lighting can be added to specific areaswhere colored lights may be more desirable, such as meditation spacesand steam showers.

The illumination subsystem 204 discussed below is used to preserve andremediate the disruption of circadian rhythm, enhancing health,including the natural sleep cycle, the healthy development of the eyesamong some attributes, and treating or alleviating the symptoms ofvarious disorders, syndromes and/or afflictions. The illuminationsubsystem 204 may, for example, expose occupants or residents of ahabitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) or a portion thereof to short periodsof intense artificial light for therapeutic effects while subjects areawake as part of delivering light therapy.

The illumination subsystem 204 includes an artificial illuminationsubsystem 204 a and a natural illumination subsystem 204 b, which areoperated in tandem to provide desired illumination in the habitableenvironment 100 (FIG. 1). In particular, the illumination subsystem 204provides lighting in the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) withgradually adjusted color temperature and intensity to, for exampleimprove circadian rhythm. As discussed below, the illumination subsystem204 may implement a dawn simulator to gradually increase light and soundlevels, which are designed to awaken the body when it enters a lightstage of sleep. Such may replace standard alarm clocks producing a morenatural environment to slowly wake from. Such may be realized by slowopening blackout shades or slowly allowing more light to pass through anelectrochromatic pane over a wakeup period. Active sound may also beslowly increased in volume. Sounds may be those found in the naturalenvironment or may be other sounds, such as music. Such may be realizedin an integral unit, or via a dedicated bedside unit, which may providefor sounds as well as artificial lighting.

Also as discussed below, the illumination subsystem 204 may implementnightlights, employing dim (e.g., low-wattage) long wavelength LED orincandescent luminaires that engage in response to motion or ambientlight levels, and are designed to sufficiently illuminate rooms for safenavigation without disturbing melatonin levels.

The artificial illumination subsystem 204 a includes a plurality ofillumination sources 252, and optionally one or more power supplies 254.As previously noted, the illumination sources 252 may take a widevariety of forms, for instance incandescent, florescent, compactflorescent, or LED lights. LED lighting may be preferable since such isextremely energy efficient and may have a long operating life. Theillumination sources 252, either alone or in combination, should becapable of selectively providing a broad range of intensities and abroad range of wavelengths. Such allows the illumination sources 252 tobe selectively controlled to produce a wide variety of artificialillumination conditions, for instance conditions that mimic naturallight, diurnal light patterns, circadian light patterns, light therapypatterns, and/or light patterns to accommodate for changes in location(e.g., latitude and/or longitude) or changes in season (e.g., spring,summer, autumn, winter). A circadian light pattern may be a pattern oflight during a defined period of time (e.g., solar day, approximately 24hours) which mimics the intensity and/or color of naturally occurringlight (e.g., sunlight and darkness) for a given location (e.g., latitudeand/or longitude) and/or at a given time of year (e.g., season, month).A produced or generated or provided circadian light pattern may beproduced by a combination of artificial and naturally occurring light,which may be controlled to produce a defined or desired circadian lightpattern. The defined or desired circadian light pattern may itself bedifferent from a naturally occurring circadian light pattern at aparticular location and/or time of year, or may simply be shiftedrelative to the naturally occurring circadian light pattern at aparticular location and/or time of year. The illumination sources 252may take the form of arrays of LEDs, each LED capable of producing oneor more ranges of wavelengths. Wavelength of emitted light may beadjusted by varying a drive current supplied to LEDs. Thus, desiredwavelengths may be achieved by selectively operating certain sets ofLEDs (e.g., LEDS that emit in a given range of wavelengths), and/or byvarying a current level supplied to any given LEDs. Intensity may beadjusted by selectively operating more or less LEDS, or by controllingpower supplied to one or more LEDs via the power supply or supplies 254.For example, a duty cycle of a pulse width modulated (PWM) drive signalmay be varied to adjust intensity out the output.

The power supply or supplies 254 may take a wide variety of forms,mostly dependent on the source of power (e.g., AC line current, DC), andthe illumination sources (e.g., LEDs). The power supply or supplies 254may include a transformer to electrically isolate the rest of thecircuit from the source of power, and/or step down or step up a voltage.The power supply or supplies 254 may include a switch mode converter,operable to step down and/or step up a voltage. The power supply orsupplies 254 may include one or more rectifiers (e.g., passive diodebridge, active transistor bridge of MOSFETs or IGBTs) to rectify ACpower to DC power. Less likely, the power supply or supplies 254 mayinclude one or more inverters, to invert DC power to AC power. The powersupply or supplies 254 may include one or more dedicated power supplycontrollers, for instance a microcontroller such as a microprocessor,DSP, ASIC, PGA, or PLC and/or associated nontransitory computer- orprocessor-readable media. The power supply or supplies 254 is or arecommunicatively coupled to control a supply of electrical power to theillumination sources.

The natural light subsystem 204 b may include one or more actuators,which are drivingly coupled to control an amount of natural lightreceived in the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) via one or morewindows 110. As previously discussed, the actuators may, for exampletake the form of an electrical power source 256 coupled to control atransmissivity of one or more electrochromatic panes or panels 146 (FIG.1). As also previously discussed, the actuators may, for example takethe form of an electric motor 258, solenoid or other element drivinglycoupled that control a position of one or more window coverings 150(FIG. 1) relative to the window, and thereby adjusting an amount ofillumination that passes. The window coverings 150 may take the form of“blackout shades”, that are automatically operated to shield an occupantor resident of the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) from outdoorlight. The actuator 256, 258 may receive electrical power from a voltagesource, or may receive control signals from a microcontroller.Electrochromatic panes or panels 146 (FIG. 1) may be capable of adjust(i.e., selectively substantially passing, selectively substantiallyblocking) ranges of wavelengths passed or block, as well as intensity ofnatural illumination passed or blocked. Thus, electrochromatic panes orpanels 146 (FIG. 1) may be preferred over the window covering approach.

Controlling ingress of ambient light (e.g., sunlight, light from streetlamps, buildings or signage, security lighting) from an exteriorenvironment aids in management of exposure to levels of light in orderto help maintain healthy circadian rhythms. This is particularlyimportant during early summer mornings and long summer evenings,particularly at high latitudes (e.g., above or greater thanapproximately 40 degrees North or South) and/or urban environments.

Municipal water systems use many methods to control the purity of water.Although these methods generally succeed in bringing contaminant levelswithin national and state limits, water quality occasionally becomes anissue. For example, the Las Vegas sodium and sulfate levels in waterwould fail NYC city standards. In New York, byproducts formed bychlorination are near the federal limit. In response to these concerns,habitable environments 100 may use supplemental treatment technologiesto bring contaminant concentrations well within the safety limits set byAmerican regulatory agencies, as well as international safety standards.

New York City water is currently unfiltered, but a filtration plant isunder construction for water drawn from the Croton Reservoir.Additionally, a UV sanitization facility is under construction forgermicidal irradiation for the remaining water sources(Catskill/Delaware system).

Sediments-Solids of sulfates and chlorides can be suspended in water andproduce a cloudy opacity, or turbidity. Water with high turbidity is notinherently unhealthy but elevated levels may be indicative of problemsin the filtration process, which may imply that other contaminants havenot been adequately removed. The coarse filters 259 reduce suspendedsolids in water. This is often the first stage of treatment, whichoptimizes performance of subsequent filters in the system.

Municipal water systems often add chlorine-based disinfectants to thewater supply to remove bacteria. This affects water odor and taste, andcauses potential irritation of the eyes. The human body containsbeneficial symbiotic bacteria, which are necessary for the properfunction of the skin and digestive tract. These microbes on the skin areharmed by chlorine. When chlorinated water comes into extended contactwith organic matter, byproducts such as tri-halomethanes and halo-aceticacids can form, which are carcinogenic.

Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCP) comprise a myriad ofdifferent chemicals used as active ingredients in medications, cleaningproducts, and health supplies. PPCP enter the water system throughmultiple pathways, such as incomplete metabolism of drugs in the body,improper disposal of pills or personal care and cleaning products.Potentially unsafe levels of PPCP have accumulated in lakes and rivers,where they can enter municipal water systems. PPCPs are the likely causeof hermaphroditism in fish and lake amphibians, as well as otherreproductive harm. Further contamination of water supplies is expectedand increases in the quantity of PPCPs in the water are the subject ofnumerous research programs. The activated carbon water filters 260 thatreduce disinfectant byproducts, pesticides, dissolved gases, chlorine,chloramine, and some pharmaceutical and personal care products,resulting in cleaner and better-tasting water. “Activated” charcoalfilters contain a maze of passageways and openings, giving activatedcarbon some 1000 square meters of surface per gram.

Numerous forms of micro-organisms may be damaging to health or anindicator of poor water quality.

For example, coliforms are common, rod-shaped bacteria that are harmlessin and of themselves. Like turbidity and suspended solids, coliforms actas indicators: their presence suggests that other, more dangerousmicroorganisms could survive water treatment and may be present in thesupply. The EPA goal for coliforms is zero trace, but the enforceablelimit allows 5% of all samples within a single month to test positive.New York City tested positive for 46 of 9958 samples taken in 2010 (or1.3% of samples in the highest month).

Also for example, Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria are alsorod-shaped bacteria, and the majority of strains are harmless. Somestrains, such as O157:H7, cause food poisoning by excreting toxicchemicals that can be life threatening for vulnerable individuals. E.coli is transmitted as a result of eating unwashed or undercooked food.Infectious E. coli can also be found in water contaminated with fecalmatter, such as agricultural runoff.

As further examples, Cryptosporidium and Giardia are single-celledmicrobes often found in water systems contaminated by sewage. Muchlarger than bacteria, these protozoa cause digestive problems,especially in vulnerable populations.

The water treatment subsystem 206 ensures that a supply of clean,healthy water is supplied to the habitable environment 100 (Figure) forexample via taps such as the faucets 130, 136 (FIG. 1) or showerhead 132(FIG. 1). The water treatment subsystem 206 may use a multi-stepapproach.

The water treatment subsystem 206 may include one or more mechanicalfilters 259. The mechanical filters 259 may include one or more sedimentor coarse filters to filter sediment or larger particulate matter fromthe water. The mechanical filters 259 may include one or more finefilters to filter fine particulate from the water. Various types ofcoarse filter and/or fine filter media may be employed, including wiremesh screens, diatomaceous earth, ceramic water filter elements.

The water treatment subsystem 206 may include one or more activatedcharcoal filters 260. The activated charcoal filters may removeparticulate in the size range of approximately 0.5 micrometers to 50.0micrometers.

As an alternative to adding chemical disinfectants, water can bedisinfected by irradiation with UV light. The high-energy light damagesthe DNA of microorganisms, making it less possible for them toreproduce. UV treatment is highly effective in clear, sediment-freewater. Thus, the water treatment subsystem 206 may employ Ultra-VioletGermicidal Irradiation (UVGI), in an attempt to eliminate microorganismswithout using chemical-based filtering. In particular, the watertreatment subsystem 206 may include one or more ultraviolet (UV)illumination sources 261 operable to expose the water to UV illuminationof sufficient intensity and for sufficient time as to render pathogensin the water non-harmful. The UV illumination sources 261 may besupplied electrical power from one or more dedicated electrical powersupplies 262.

As an alternative, a reverse osmosis system (not shown) preceded by acarbon filter may replace the sediment filter and ultravioletirradiation for the removal of chlorine, PPCPS, disinfectant byproducts,heavy metals, microbes, and water hardeners.

The water treatment subsystem 206 may include one or more reservoirs ofvitamin C 263 and one or more ports, valves, or manifolds 264 operableto release vitamin C into the water. The ports, valves, or manifolds 264may be fluidly coupled to release vitamin C only in certain plumbingruns, for example supplying vitamin C only to water going to theshowerhead 132 (FIG. 1) or optionally the faucet 130 associated with thetub or shower stall 122 (FIG. 1). An infusion of vitamin C into showerwater may remove residual chlorine. In high concentrations, the skin canabsorb vitamin C for example when applied as a topical cream. Whilethese levels are significantly higher than those present in the showers,the shower water still provides the skin with small amounts ofnutrients.

The air treatment subsystem 208 may include a variety of components toensure that air supplied to the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) ishealthy and comfortable for the occupant(s).

Good air quality is one of the most important features of a healthyenvironment. Stationary adults typically inhale 6 to 10 liters of aireach minute. This amount doubles with moderate activity and doublesagain with rigorous exercise. Approximately 15 cubic meters of air passthrough the lungs of a moderately active adult each day.

Minute quantities of gaseous pollutants and particulates are present inthe air from both natural and anthropogenic sources, which can causeserious health problems. Reducing the sources of gases and particulatesin the home will decrease their negative effects. Airborne contaminantsgenerated by materials, and the presence of individuals in the home,require expulsion through ventilation to the outdoors, and filtration toensure that they do not return to the indoor air supply.

The major health effects of poor air quality are lung cancer andcardio-pulmonary disease. A significantly greater number of deaths fromthese ailments are attributable to periods of higher levels ofparticulate matter. Other effects of air quality are asthma attacks,emphysema, and interference with the immune system.

At the microscopic scale, natural laws concerning fluid dynamics andgravity work differently, allowing solids and liquids to float in theair almost indefinitely. Put broadly, this microscopic particulatematter is divided into two categories: fine particles, smaller than 2.5μm (PM_(2.5)); and coarse particles larger than 2.5 μm and smaller than10 μm (PM_(10-2.5)). Fine particles are inhalable particles that canlead to a number of health issues. Due to physical processes that governtheir formation, fine particles are inherently more acidic and mutagenicthan their larger counterparts. Fine particles are drawn deep into thelungs, maximizing damage. Most cases of mortality from inhalation ofcoarse particulate matter and larger contaminants arise from toxicchemicals they contain rather than the particles themselves.

Coarse particles do not penetrate as deeply into the lungs as fineparticles, and therefore are the less dangerous of the two. However,many coarse particles are allergens. For example, dust mites aremicroscopic arachnids that feed on pet dander, dead human skin cells,and other biological matter. They thrive in carpets, mattresses, andcurtains, and tend to dwell in synthetic fibers rather than naturalmaterials. Mites are not inherently dangerous, but their droppingscontain chemicals that trigger an immune response in some individuals.The resulting symptoms often include itchy eyes, runny nose, andwheezing, a reaction that can be particularly debilitating forasthmatics. Nearly one quarter of American homes have dust mite levelsassociated with symptomatic asthma, and almost half contain enough dustmites to cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.

The air treatment subsystem 208 may include one or more mechanical airfilters (e.g., mesh, screen, woven, or piled material) 265, throughwhich air passes to remove larger particulate. Suitable mechanical airfilters may include an activated carbon air filter, high efficiencyparticulate (HEPA) air filter (i.e., MERV equivalent 17+), MERV 13-16air filter, a quantity of Zeolite, or a porous material.

The air treatment subsystem 208 may include one or more electrostaticfilters or precipitators 266 to remove fine particulate. In particular,electrostatic filter(s) 266 trap particles that could contain allergens,toxins, and pathogens. In addition, the electrostatic filter(s) 266 areinstalled to reduce dust mites, pollen, carpet fibers, mold spores,bacteria, smoke, and diesel particulate matter from the air. Theelectrostatic filter(s) 266 attracts particles using an electrostaticcharge and extracts them from the air into a wire mesh.

The electrostatic filters 266 may take a variety of forms, for instanceones which place a charge on particles and an opposite charge on ascreen or other electrode element to attract the charged particles. Anexample of such is a corona discharge type of electrostatic filter. Theelectrostatic filter 266 may be supplied charge via an electrical powersupply 267.

Various airborne pathogens may present problems, particularly inenclosed spaces or habitable environments. This may be of particularconcern with newer construction techniques which are employed to reducethe exchange of air with the exterior environment, for instance toreduce heat loss and thereby increase thermal efficiency. Although mostairborne microbes are pervasive and generally harmless, some can bedangerous pathogens easily spread throughout a home's ventilationsystem.

Mold spores can induce skin, nose, throat, and eye irritation, andtrigger asthma attacks. These fungi release volatile organic compoundsthat produce the characteristic “moldy” odor and have been linked todizziness and nausea. Humidity control has been proven effective inreducing mold, and insulated windows reduce condensation so as toprevent mold from growing in nearby joints.

Individual microbes are very small and can evade some filters if notattached to other particles. In order to reduce the probability ofairborne pathogens from traveling through the enclosed space orhabitable environment 100 (FIG. 1), UVGI can be used to provideadditional protection. UVGI is based on a specific frequency of UV lightthat specifically targets the DNA of microbes and viruses passingthrough the ventilation system.

The air treatment subsystem 208 may include a UV air sanitizer designedto disinfect air via UV light within one or more components (e.g.,ducts) of a ventilation system. The aim is to sterilize airbornebacteria, viruses, dust mites, and mold spores that may have escapedfiltration.

Thus, the air treatment subsystem 208 may include one or more UVillumination sources 268. The UV illumination source(s) 268 ispositioned to illuminate air with UV illumination of a sufficientintensity for a sufficient time as to render pathogens non-harmful.

Various gaseous pollutants may produce harmful effects in humans,particularly where allowed to accumulate in habitable enclosed spaces.Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are carbon-based chemicals thatevaporate into gases at room temperature. Many paints, cleaningproducts, and pest control chemicals emit VOCs, whose presence inbuildings is 2 to 5 times as high as outside levels. Some furniture andbuilding materials also slowly release some kinds of VOC, such asformaldehyde. In the short term, exposure can cause dizziness, nausea,headaches, throat irritation, and fatigue, while chronic effects includedamage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system.

Nitrogen dioxide is a product of combustion and mainly found nearburning sources. Indoor areas that contain gas stoves, fireplaces, andcigarette smoke often have a much higher concentration of nitrogendioxide. Epidemiological studies suggest that excessive nitrogen dioxideinhalation may decrease lung function, particularly in children. In theshort term, it can also trigger allergic responses from the immunesystem, resulting in irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat.

Ozone is created by reactions between molecular oxygen, nitrogen oxides,and sunlight. It is the major catalyst in the formation of smog. Ozoneimpedes cellular respiration, resulting in reduced cell activity. Highconcentrations of inhaled ozone can result in an itchy throat and chesttightness; chronic exposure scars the lung tissue, which can lead toemphysema. In addition, ozone interferes with the body's immune system,which compounds the danger from air or water-borne pathogens. Undercurrent standards, the E.P.A. expects ozone to cause more than 110,000lost work days and 1,100,000 lost school days between 2008 and 2020.

The design of the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) avoids or at leastreduces the use of materials which emit VOCs, for example omitting oravoiding products or materials containing certain glues or resins (e.g.,particle board). In day-to-day use, materials which emit VOCs are alsoavoided. For instance, the care or maintenance of the habitableenvironment 100 (FIG. 1), avoids the use of cleaning compounds which areknown to result in VOC emission.

Nevertheless, some VOCs and other gaseous pollutants may appear in thehabitable environment. Thus, the air treatment subsystem 208 may includeone or more activated carbon air filters 249 in the flow path to reduceVOC, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone that pass through activated carbonmedia filters designed to intercept gas molecules. Activated carbon airfilters 249 are most useful in areas with sources of fumes or odors.

Additionally or alternatively, the electrostatic filter 266 or someother element may optionally include one or more catalysts selected tocatalyze certain impurities in the air. For instance, the electrostaticfilter 266 may include one or more catalysts (e.g., non-metal catalystsfor instance: titanium dioxide, chromium oxide or aluminum oxide, ormetal catalysts for instance: Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ag, Ir, Pt andAu, as well as combinations or alloys thereof, such as an alloy of Ptand Rh) to catalyze species of VOCs into more acceptable or less harmfulforms.

The air treatment subsystem 208 may include one or more heaters 269 toheat air. The heaters 269 may take any of a large variety of forms.Heaters 269 may take the form of various electric heaters, which employa resistive radiant element to heat air. Heaters 269 may take the formof forced air heaters which typically include burners that burn a fuelsuch as natural gas or propane. Heaters 269 may alternatively take theform of oil furnaces, or the like.

The air treatment subsystem 208 may include one or more compressors 270which may form part of an air conditioner cooling unit. The compressors270 may be fluidly coupled to control pressure of a fluid, coupled withone or more coils or other heat exchangers, and may operate in a similarfashion to standard air conditioner units to remove heat from the air.

Relative humidity is the measure of water vapor in the air compared tothe total amount that can be held at a given temperature. In the springand summer months, humidity levels can be high enough to causediscomfort. When cool air flows through central air systems, humidity inthe air is reduced, since cooler air holds less water vapor. However, asdry air is drawn in and heated within a building in the winter, relativehumidity falls, so the air feels dry.

To maintain comfort, and prevent the establishment and growth of mold,dust mites, and bacteria, relative humidity in the habitable environment100 should be kept between 30% and 50%. Using high-temperature waterwithin the ventilation system of the home suppresses bacteria growth.Humidity towards the bottom of this range is better in terms of airquality, but extremely low moisture levels may lead to dry skin andrespiratory irritation.

Thus, the air treatment subsystem 208 may include a humidifier and/ordehumidifier 271 which controls humidity throughout the enclosedhabitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). This is particularly important whenmoisture levels in the air fall in winter, thus the air treatmentsubsystem 208 must increase the moisture (i.e., humidify) during dryperiods. Conversely, the air treatment subsystem 208 lowers moisture(i.e., dehumidifies) during humid periods. The humidifier and/ordehumidifier 271 may include a reservoir (not shown) that retains waterto either be added to the air in a humidification mode or removed fromthe air in a dehumidification mode. The humidifier and/or dehumidifier271 may include a compressor (not shown) used to, for example cool airas part of removing moisture. The humidifier and/or dehumidifier 271 mayoptionally include a heating element to heat air as part of addingmoisture.

To control relative humidity, the air treatment subsystem 208 mayadditionally employ exhaust vents 158 a (FIG. 1), particularly in thebathroom 100 b (FIG. 1) used to increase the ventilation rate in thatportion of the habitable environment in order to rapidly lower humiditygenerated therein, for example from showers 122, 132 (FIG. 1).

The air treatment subsystem 208 may include one or more fans and/orblowers 272 coupled to one or more ducts (FIG. 1) and/or vents (FIG. 1).The fans and/or blowers 272 may circulate air within the air treatmentsubsystem 208 and/or within the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). Thefans and/or blowers 272 may expel air to an exterior environment and/ordraw fresh air from the exterior environment, prior to treating thefresh air. In particular, a high flow ventilation system expels indoorair to reduce the buildup of internally generated air impurities such asvolatile organic compounds, dust mites, and pet dander. A heat exchangermay advantageously be employed to recover energy from the outgoing air.

As an alternative for humidity control, a waterfall (not shown) in theenclosed space can both increase and decrease the relative humidity.When chilled water is circulated in the waterfall, the system absorbswater vapor from the air. When room temperature or warm water iscirculated in the waterfall, the system releases water vapor into theair. The waterfall may also provide a soothing background sound in thehabitable environment 100.

The practice of aromatherapy employs a wide variety of oils andextracts, with differing effects on mood and emotion. Supporters ofcontemporary aromatherapy practices suggest that various fruit andplant-based aromas have the ability to positively affect mood, behavior,and perceptions of wellness. Examples of plant-based scents and theircorresponding benefits include:

Lavender effects include restful sleep during exposure at night,increased vigor the morning after nighttime exposure enhanced mood,decreased heart rate and increased positive mood. Jasmine effectsinclude relaxation, decreased heart rate and increased positive mood.Orange scent has been used to reduce anxiety and help maintain bettermood in stressful circumstances. Rosemary has been shown to enhancememory and increases reaction times.

The scent subsystem 210 is operable to selectively dispense or disperseone or more scents into the air in the habitable environment 100(FIG. 1) or a portion thereof. The scent subsystem 210 may include anumber of reservoirs 273 which hold various scents (e.g., lavender,rosemary), typically in a liquid form. One or more vents, valves ormanifolds 274 are selectively operable to fluidly communicably coupleselected ones of the reservoirs to emit or disperse scent into thehabitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) or a portion thereof, for example viaducts or vents of the air treatment subsystem 208. The scent subsystem210 may optionally include one or more fans and/or blowers 275 to assistin dispersing the scent(s) into the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1)or a portion thereof. The scent subsystem 210 may optionally include oneor more heaters 276, thermally (e.g., conductively, radiantly,convectively) coupled to the reservoirs 273 or an output of thereservoirs 273 to heat and thereby vaporize liquid forms of the scent(s)into a gaseous form more easily dispersible into the habitableenvironment 100 (FIG. 1) or a portion thereof.

Additionally or alternatively, one or more passive components may beemployed to diffuse scents into the habitable environment 100. Forexample, various items or objects may be impregnated with specificscents. Such items or objects may include various fabrics, such ascurtains, linens or bedding (e.g., pillow cases, pillows, sheets,blankets, comforters, duvets), carpets, towels, etc. Such items mayinclude a pouch, sack or other breathable encasement or enclosure, whichmay be positioned at various locations about the habitable environment100, for instance in a flow path of a vent or within a pillow case. Thepouch or sack may be distributed in an air-tight packet, container orenvelope which is opened immediately prior to use. Such mayadvantageously maintain the scent emitting materials fresh betweenmanufacture and use, and may prevent undesired scents from being emittedinto the habitable environment. Thus, certain packets may be opened tocustomize the scent to a specific occupant or occupants of the habitableenvironment 100, and the scent(s) allowed to disburse or dispersethrough the habitable environment 100.

Thus, active or passive components of a scent subsystem 210 deliverroom-specific aromatherapy based on the room's function and aromabenefit. A wide variety of essential oils and crafted aromas areavailable for use in the dispenser with the option to tailor toindividual specifications.

The sound subsystem 212 provides sound into the habitable environment100 (FIG. 1) or a portion thereof. In particular, the sound system may,for example, provide soothing sounds (e.g., running water, forestsounds, waves, “white” noise, “pink” noise, music). The sound subsystem212 may include one or more speakers 277, which may be positionedthroughout the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) or a portion thereof.Sounds may be selected to produce relaxation or to allow an occupant tofocus more intently than the occupant would focus without the sounds,for example while reading or working. The sound subsystem 212 mayinclude one or more amplifiers 278 electrically, optically or wirelesslycoupled to provide signals to the speakers 277 (e.g., typically analogor digital electrical signals) that cause the speakers 277 to reproducethe sounds represented by the signals. The sound subsystem 212 mayoptionally include a nontransitory computer- or processor-readablestorage media 279 that stores digital versions of the sounds, forexample in a library. The amplifier 278 may include one or more CODECsand/or microcontrollers to convert the digital versions of the soundsinto signals for controlling the speakers 277. The sound subsystem 212may include one or more microphones (not shown) to detect noise in thehabitable space. The sound subsystem 212 may provide masking sound tooffset or cancel the noise.

The input/output (I/O) subsystem 214 is communicatively coupled to thecontrol subsystem 202 to supply input thereto and/or to provide outputtherefrom. The input/output (I/O) subsystem 214 may include varioussensors 280-282, user operable input/output (I/O) devices, controls,panels or kiosks 283, 284, and other devices or components such astelevisions 285.

For example, one or more occupant sensors or detectors 280 may bepositioned in, or proximate the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) orportions thereof. The occupant sensor(s) or detector(s) 280 sense ordetect a presence, or conversely an absence, of an occupant in thehabitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). The occupant sensors or detectors280 may take any of a large variety of forms. For example, the occupantsensor(s) or detector(s) 280 may take the form of various motiondetectors, for instance passive infrared based motion detectors,proximity (RF) based motion detectors, microwave or radar based motiondetectors, ultrasonic based motion detectors, vibration based motiondetectors, and/or video based motion detectors. The occupant sensor(s)or detector(s) 280 may include simple contact switches which detectmovement or operation of a fixture or some other element (e.g., turningon a radio, television, stereo, appliance) by an occupant. The occupantsensor(s) or detector(s) 280 may take the form of simple cameras (e.g.,digital camera) which may capture images, from which changes from frameto frame may indicate a presence or absence of an occupant. The occupantsensor(s) or detector(s) 280 may detect a presence or absence of anobject associated with the occupant, for instance a smartcard orkeycard, or a handheld or mobile device.

Also for example, one or more temperature sensors or detectors 281 maybe positioned in, or proximate the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) orportions thereof. The temperature sensor(s) or detector(s) 281 sense ordetect a temperature proximate the temperature sensor or detector andprovides signals to the control subsystem 202 and/or air treatmentsubsystem 208 indicative of the sensed or detected temperature. Thetemperature sensor(s) or detector(s) 281 may employ various components,for example thermocouples or thermally responsive resistors.

Also for example, one or more humidity sensors or detectors 282 may bepositioned in, or proximate the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) orportions thereof. The humidity sensor(s) or detector(s) 282 sense ordetect humidity or relative humidity proximate the humidity sensor ordetector 282 and provides signals to the control subsystem 202 and/orair treatment subsystem 208 indicative of the sensed or detectedhumidity. The humidity sensor(s) or detector(s) 282 may employ variouscomponents.

One or more in-room user operable input/output (I/O) controls, panels orkiosks 283 may allow an occupant or facility personnel (e.g., cleaner,maintenance) to interact with the environmental control system 200. Thein-room I/O control(s), panel(s) or kiosk(s) 283 may include atouch-sensitive or touch-responsive display, which allows presentationof information and a graphical user interface (GUI). The information mayinclude information about the current settings of the environmentalcontrol system 200 and different settings which may be selected by theuser. The GUI will include one or more user selectable icons (e.g.,scroll bars, tool bars, pull down menus, dialog boxes, keys, text)displayed for selection by the user. Selection may allow the user toadjust illumination, temperature, humidity, sound, or other aspects ofthe environment. The GUI may present the user with a set of definedprograms to select from, the programs. The programs may be presented ina simple fashion with simple labels or names, yet may have fairlycomplicated sets of settings for various combinations of the subsystems202-214.

The in-room user operable I/O control(s), panel(s) or kiosk(s) 283 mayalso allow collection of information from an occupant which isindicative of the occupant's impressions and overall satisfaction withthe habitable environment 100, and particularly the health and wellnessamenities. Such may be captured with an automated survey, which includesvarious questions and possible ratings, presented for instance via agraphical user interface (GUI).

One or more facility user operable I/O controls, panels or kiosks 284may allow facility personnel (e.g., clerk, concierge, cleaner,maintenance personnel) to interact with the environmental control system200. The facility I/O control(s), panel(s) or kiosk(s) 284 may include atouch-sensitive or touch-responsive display, which allows presentationof information and a GUI. The information may include information aboutthe current settings of the environmental control system 200 anddifferent settings which may be selected by the user. The GUI willinclude one or more user selectable icons (e.g., scroll bars, tool bars,pull down menus, dialog boxes, keys, text) displayed for selection bythe user. Selection may allow the user to adjust illumination,temperature, humidity, sound, or other aspects of the environment. TheGUI may present the user with a set of defined programs to select from,the programs. The programs may be presented in a simple fashion withsimple labels or names, yet may have fairly complicated sets of settingsfor various combinations of the subsystems 202-214. The GUI mayoptionally allow facility personnel to define new programs, delete oldprograms, and/or modify existing programs.

The GUI may, for example, allow facility personnel to enter informationabout a specific guest or other occupant that will occupy a respectivehabitable environment. Information may, for example, include a locationfrom which the occupant originated. The location may be specified in avariety of forms including name (e.g., city, state, country), geographiccoordinates (e.g., latitude and/or longitude). Such may allow theenvironmental control system 200 to determine a control program thataccommodates for changes experienced by the occupant due to travel to anew location. Thus, the environmental control system 200 may adjust forchanges in the diurnal cycle and/or circadian cycle. Information mayinclude an age or approximate age of the occupant, which may affect orbe related to circadian cycle and the ability to adjust for travel(e.g., “jet lag”). Such may allow accommodation or treatment for otherissues, for instance seasonal affective disorder, or providing lighttherapy to treat certain aliments or symptoms.

As noted previously, one or more televisions 285 may be used to at leastpresent information to an occupant. In some implementations, a controlsuch as a remote control, may be used by the occupant to interact withthe television 285 to make selection of various user selectable optionsfor controlling one or more components of the environmental controlsystem 200. As also previously noted, an occupant may use a handheld ormobile device 182 c (FIG. 1), such as a smart phone, tablet computer,etc. to interact with environmental control system 200.

The server 244 and nontransitory computer- or processor-readable medium246 may store and provide information to other components of theenvironmental control system 200. Such may, for instance, include aschedule that specifies which occupants will occupy which habitableenvironments 100 (FIG. 1) of the facility, and at what times. Thisinformation may also specify, or be mapped to, information whichspecifies desired environmental characteristics for the respectiveoccupants. Thus, the environmental control system 200 may automaticallyadjust environmental characteristics in a variety of habitableenvironments 100, customized for the particular occupant.

A sanitizing subsystem 216 may be an integral part of the habitableenvironment 100, or may be selectively provided thereto or therein, forexample when preparing for another occupant or guest. For instance, thesanitizing subsystem 216 may be provided as a cart with wheels, asillustrated in FIG. 2, for selectively being wheeled into the habitableenvironment 100. While illustrated as a cart, the sanitizing subsystem216 may be provided as a portable unit which may be hung from a polemounted approximately centrally in the habitable environment, or wall orless preferably hung from a wall or other structure in the habitableenvironment 100. Such may advantageously allow the sanitizing subsystem216 or a portion thereof to be positioned at a higher point than mightotherwise be achieved via a cart.

The sanitizing subsystem 216 may provide a sanitizing agent into thehabitable environment 100 to destroy or render non-harmful various pestsor pathogens. The sanitizing subsystem 216 may optionally evacuate thesanitizing agent from the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1), after asufficient time has passed for the sanitizing agent to destroy or rendernon-harmful the pests or pathogens.

The sanitizing agent may take a variety of forms. The sanitizing agentmay be in a gaseous form, or may be a vapor or “dry vapor” (i.e.,non-wetting) form. Suitable sanitizing agents may, for example, includeforms of chlorine dioxide, peracetic acid, hydrogen peroxide andelectrochemically activated solutions (e.g., electrolyzed water).Suitable sanitizing agents may, for example, include photocatalyticantimicrobial materials (e.g., composite photocatalyst, nanoparticlesized zinc metal in a matrix of nano-crystalline titanium dioxideavailable under the trademark OXITITAN™ from EcoActive Surfaces, Inc. ofPompano Beach, Fla.). Such may provide an antimicrobial surface, reduceodor and VOCs, provide for hydrophilic or hydrophobic self-cleaning,and/or UV or corrosion protection. The UV protection may be particularlyadvantageous where UV illumination is also utilized in sanitizing thehabitable environment 100.

Alternatively, or additionally, the sanitizing agent may be in the formof electromagnetic energy or radiation, for example specific ranges ofwavelengths such as UV of electromagnetic energy.

A sanitizing subsystem 216 may include one or more reservoirs ofsanitizing agent(s) or materials 286 which when combined produce asanitizing agent. The sanitizing subsystem 216 may include one or morefans or blowers 287 to assist in dispersing the sanitizing agent intothe habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). In some implementations, thefan(s) or blower(s) 287 also assist in removing or evacuating thesanitizing agent into the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). Thesanitizing subsystem 216 may optionally include one or more transducers288 operable to place the sanitizing agent in a form more amenable todispersion. The transducer(s) 288 may take the form of a heater, forexample to vaporize the sanitizing agent. Additionally or alternatively,the transducer(s) 288 may take the form of one or more high frequencyvibration elements (e.g., piezoelectric element) to pulverize orotherwise particalize either dry sanitizing agent into a very fineparticulate form or to break up droplets of liquid sanitizing agent intoa very fine form, for instance that does not wet surfaces. Other typesof transducers 288 may be employed.

The sanitizing subsystem 216 may include one or more ports or vents 289for dispersing the sanitizing agent. Ports or vents 289 may be builtinto a housing 290 of the sanitizing subsystem 216. Additionally, oralternatively, the sanitizing subsystem 216 may include one or morehoses 291 with nozzles 292 or other openings for dispersing thesanitizing agent.

The sanitizing subsystem 216 may include one or more wands selectivelyoperable to emit electromagnetic energy or radiation, for examplespecific ranges of wavelengths such as UV of electromagnetic energy. Thewand(s) may include one or more illumination sources, for instance UVillumination sources and may be electrically coupled to a power source297 carried by the cart via one or more cables 298. Alternatively,illumination sources may be located in the cart, and the wand(s)optically coupled thereto via one or more cables 298.

The sanitizing subsystem 216 may include one or more illuminationsources positioned so as to be exposed to the ambient environment inorder to provide illumination into the habitable environment 100directly from a housing of the sanitizing subsystem 216. Theillumination sources positioned on an exterior of the cart or within theexterior of the cart and optically communicatively coupled to theexterior via one or more optical ports (not shown). This may allow thegeneral habitable environment 100 to be optically treated, for instancewith UV illumination. The wand(s) may, for instance, be used to treatareas or spaces that would not otherwise be treated via directillumination from the illumination sources, for instance areas or spacesthat are not in a direct line of sight of the illumination sources. Insome implementations, the illumination sources may provide theillumination which is optically coupled to the wand(s) via the cable298.

Sanitizing may require as little as three hours of exposure to UVillumination, dependent of a variety of factors such as type ofpathogens, distance, and intensity (e.g., incident energies). Targetedpathogens may take a variety of forms, for example mold spores, andorganisms such as various bacillus, protozoa, virus, yeast. Mold sporesmay include, for instance: Aspergillius flavis, Aspergillius glaucus,Aspergillius niger, Mucor racemosus A, Mucor racemosus B, Oosporalactis, Penicillium expansum, Penicillium roqueforti, Penicilliumdigitatum, Rhisopus nigricans. Illumination may occur before, after,during, or before and after application of a photocatalyticantimicrobial agent or coating. Operation may require that the habitablespace be vacant during the entire period of treatment. Thus a remotecontrol (e.g., wireless handheld transmitter and wireless receiver inthe cart 203) or a delay start timer may be advantageously employed.

Data, Data Structures, and Nontransitory Storage Media

Various nontransitory media discussed above may store information suchas data including configuration information in one or more datastructures. Data structures may take a variety of forms, for examplerecords associated with relational databases, a database itself, lookuptables, etc. The data structures may store a variety of differentinformation or data.

Operation

FIG. 3 shows a high level method 300 of providing an enhancedenvironment in a habitable environment 100, according to one illustratedembodiment. While often discussed in terms of a hotel, motel, spa orother hospitality environment, the habitable environment 100 may takethe form of a home, office, hospital or any other inhabitableenvironment.

The method 300 starts at 302. The method 300 may, for example start on aperiodic basis, for instance daily, weekly, or monthly. Alternatively,or additionally, the method 300 may start on demand, for instance inresponse to a checking in of a guest, or expected check in of a guest,or an entry of a guest or occupant into the habitable environment 100(FIG. 1), for instance in response to reading an identifier from asmartcard or cardkey 114.

At 304, cleaning personnel clean the habitable environment 100. Such mayinclude emptying waste receptacles, dusting, washing, vacuuming,cleaning and/or treating surfaces with disinfectants, and/or collectingsoiled or used laundry (e.g., towels).

At 306, cleaning personnel use or install anti-bacterial bedding,towels, other coverings (e.g., drapes) in the habitable environment 100.The anti-bacterial bedding, towels, other coverings may for example beimpregnated or coated with one or more anti-bacterial or anti-pathogenagents.

At 308, cleaning personnel optionally sanitize the habitable environment100 or a portion thereof, for instance with a sanitizing subsystem 216.As previously explained, the sanitizing subsystem 216 may take a varietyof forms, at least one of which is a fogger or “dry fogger” whichdisperses a fog or “dry fog” of a sanitizing agent into the habitableenvironment 100 (FIG. 1). The sanitizing agent may deposit on varioussurfaces, and may be left in place sufficiently long to neutralize orrender pathogens or other undesirable substance harmless. As previouslynoted, the sanitizing agent may not “wet” the surfaces, therebyprotecting the surfaces from damage. The sanitizing system 216 may then,optionally evacuate or otherwise remove the sanitizing agent from thehabitable environment 100, for instance collecting such in a reservoirfor disposal or recycling.

Optionally at 310, the environmental control system 200 or a portionthereof identifies one or more occupants or guests that will inhabit thehabitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) and/or specific attributes, traits orcharacteristics of the occupant(s). For example, facility personnel mayenter an occupant identifier via an input device, panel or kiosk 284.Also for example, the occupant(s) or guest(s) may enter an occupantidentifier via an input device, panel or kiosk 283. As a furtherexample, an occupant identifier may be automatically read from somepiece of media, for instance a smartcard or keycard. The occupantidentifier may, for example, be encoded in a magnetic stripe,machine-readable symbol, or wireless transponder (e.g., RFIDtransponder) of the smartcard or keycard. The occupant identifier mayconsist of or include the occupant's name, however preferable is analphanumeric string which does not include the occupant's actual name.The alphanumeric string may be logically associated with the occupant'sname, for example in a secure database or other secure data structure.Such an approach may enhance security.

The specific attributes, traits or characteristics of the occupant(s)may likewise be stored in a secured database or other secure datastructure, or less preferably could be stored in the smartcard orcardkey. The specific attributes, traits or characteristics of theoccupant(s) may specify information that allows customization of thehabitable environment to the needs or desires of the occupant. Forexample, the specific attributes, traits or characteristics of theoccupant(s) may identify one or more air temperatures, for example airor room temperatures for different times throughout a daily cycle. Alsofor example, the specific attributes, traits or characteristics of theoccupant(s) may identify one or more air relative humidities, forexample relative humidity for different times throughout a daily cycle.As another example, the specific attributes, traits or characteristicsof the occupant(s) may identify one or more locations from which theoccupant has traveled. Such may permit adjustment of, for examplelighting, to accommodate for jet lag, SAD, etc. As a further example,the specific attributes, traits or characteristics of the occupant(s)may identify one or more syndromes, ailments or conditions for whichenvironmental characteristics may be adjusted to alleviate or treat.These may include syndromes, ailments or conditions which may beaddressed by delivery of illumination (e.g., timed delivery of differentintensities and/or wavelengths). This may also include syndromes,ailments or conditions which may be addressed by delivery of humidity,for instance various skin disorders or problems. These syndromes,ailments or conditions may be specified by name or an assignedidentifier. Alternatively or additionally, specific instructions orpatterns may be stored for providing the desired environmentalcharacteristics. Such may help maintain privacy for individuals, and mayaddress regulatory issues (e.g., HIPAA) related to the care, handlingand management of health-related information such as electronic medicalrecords. Thus, for example, a pattern of illumination which specifieswavelengths and intensities at various times throughout the solar daymay be stored. Patterns specifying air temperature, relative humidity,sound, scents, and other ambient environmental characteristics maylikewise be stored for various times throughout the solar day. Thesepatterns may be synchronized with one another. Thus, for example,illumination and sound may be synchronized to produce a gradual wakeupperiod in which light gradually increases in intensity as does soothingsounds. The wavelengths of light may likewise gradually change duringthis wake up period. Also for example, illumination and sound may besynchronized to produce a gradual relaxation period prior to a sleeptime in which light gradually decreases in intensity as does soothingsounds. The wavelengths of light may likewise gradually change duringthis relaxation up period.

Optionally at 312, facility personnel, the occupant, or theenvironmental control system 200 or a portion thereof selects a programto execute to provide the environmental characteristics, attributes oramenities. Such may be done, for example, where no program haspreviously been specified or identified. Alternatively, such may be donewhere multiple programs are specified for a given occupant. Aspreviously noted, the one or more programs may be stored for eachperspective occupant, for example stored in a smartcard or keycard 114or stored in a database in a nontransitory computer- orprocessor-readable media 246. These programs or identifiers representingthese programs may be presented to the facility personnel or occupant toselect from, for instance via one or more of an input device, panel orkiosk 283, 284. Alternatively, or additionally, the control subsystem202 (FIG. 2) may select a program, for example based on certain criteriaabout the occupant. For instance, the control subsystem 202 (FIG. 2) maydetermine that the occupant has recently traveled from a location with asignificantly different natural light cycle from that of the location ofthe habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). Thus, the control subsystem 202(FIG. 1) may select a program which provides specific illumination orother characteristics that alleviates or otherwise addresses symptoms orailments associated with such changes in natural illumination due totravel, such as jet lag or SAD.

A set of patterns may be defined which accommodate changes in totalamount of natural light and/or the spectral components (e.g.,wavelengths) of the natural light for a large number of pairs oforigination and arrival locations, where the origination location is alocation from which the occupant departs (e.g., typically the occupant'shome) and the arrival location is a location to which the occupant hastraveled (e.g., a hotel, motel, spa). These patterns may, for example,relate each of 24 time zones (e.g., zones of longitudes) to the other 23time zones throughout the World. These patterns may relate to variouslatitudes or zones of latitudes throughout the World. For instance,patterns may be established for each pair of latitude zones (e.g., 5degree increments of latitude) north and south of the equator. Thus,each latitude zone may be related to each other latitude zone by arespective pattern. Patterns may likewise be defined for various pairsof geographical locations (e.g., longitude or time zone, and latitude)to simultaneously accommodate for both time zone changes and changes inlength of solar day. Patterns do not have to be established for allpossible pairs of geographic locations since most occupants will arrivefrom a relatively small number of geographic locations, and since thegeographic location of the arrival location is presumably known for anygiven inhabitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). Likewise, groupinglongitudes by, for instance time zone, and/or latitudes into bands(e.g., 5 degrees) will also limit the total number of stored patterns.While described as being stored, in some implementations, patterns maybe generated dynamically or “on the fly” via one or more algorithms orequations using geographic locations as input.

Optionally at 314, facility personnel may check in or register one ormore occupants, for use of the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1), in asimilar or identical manner as that performed at most hotels, motels,spas or hospitals. The identification of the occupant or guest at 310and/or the selection of the program at 312 may be performed as part ofthis check or registration. Alternatively, identification of theoccupant or guest at 310 and/or the selection of the program at 312 maybe performed prior to this check in or registration 314, for example aspart of booking or reserving the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) asan accommodation.

At 316, the control subsystem 202 (FIG. 2) runs the selected program tocause the various subsystems 202-214 to provide the environmentalcharacteristics or amenities in the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1).

Optionally at 318, the control subsystem 202 or a portion of theenvironmental control system 200 present explanatory materials whichexplain the operation and benefits of the habitable space including thevarious active and passive components. Such may include presentation ofa tutorial, for instance in a video form, explaining how a user mayoperate or otherwise interact with the environmental control system 200.

At 320, from time-to-time the control subsystem 202 or a portion of theenvironmental control system 200 determines whether a change has beenmade to any of the operational parameters. Changes may, for example, bemade by occupant(s) and/or facility personnel, or via sensed or detectedconditions in the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). For example, theoccupant(s) or facility personnel may change a setting for airtemperature, relative humidity, illumination, scent dispersal, or otherparameter. The change(s) may be temporary or one time changes, or may bemore permanent changes that will be stored for use on another occasionor for use with another habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). Thus, thecontrol subsystem 202 or a portion of the environmental control system200 may generate a new program, or execute an existing program with newor modified parameters, hence in effect constituting a new program.

If a change has been made, at 322 the control subsystem 202 or a portionof the environmental control system 200 runs the new program or programwith new parameters to provide environmental characteristics. Executionof the new program causes the various subsystems 202-214 to provide theenvironmental characteristics or amenities in the habitable environment100 (FIG. 1) in accordance with the new parameters.

Optionally at 324, the control subsystem 202 or a portion of theenvironmental control system 200 collects responses from the occupant(s)with respect to the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). In particular,the control subsystem 202 or a portion of the environmental controlsystem 200 may provide an opinion survey and/or questions regarding theoccupant(s) objective and/or subjective impressions of the effect of theaccommodations on their overall health and/or wellness or sense ofwellness. Such may also inquire regarding actual operation of theenvironmental control system 200, as well as the ease of use orinteraction with the same. The survey or questions may provide a scalefor rating the occupant's experience, and in particular sense ofwellbeing.

Optionally at 326, facility personnel check out the occupant or guest.The facility personnel preferably actively inquire about the occupant'sor guest's sense of wellbeing and experience with the amenities of thehabitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). At this time, the facility personnelmay update patterns, store new patterns, and/or delete old patternsassociated with the particular occupant or guest, providing a refinedexperience on the occupant's next visit or use of the habitableenvironment 100 (FIG. 1) or other inhabitable environment 100 (FIG. 1)for instance at another location.

The high level method 300 may terminate at 328 until started again, ormay continually repeat. Alternatively, the high level method 300 may runconcurrently with other methods or processes.

FIG. 4 shows a low level method 400 of operating one or more componentsof a habitable environment enhancement system for providingillumination, according to one illustrated embodiment, which may beuseful in performing at least a portion of the method 300 illustrated inFIG. 3.

The low level method 400 starts at 402. The method 400 may, for examplerun continuously, or may start on a periodic basis, for instance everyfew minutes, hourly, daily, weekly, monthly. Alternatively, oradditionally, the method 400, or portions thereof, may start on demand,for instance in response to detection of an occupant of the habitableenvironment 100, or in response to a request by a guest or operator of afacility (e.g., hotel, spa, resort, hospital).

Optionally at 404, a sensor or detector senses or detects whether theenclosed spaced is occupied. The sensor(s) may, for example, providesignals to the control subsystem indicative of whether the enclosedspace is occupied. One or more of the following acts may be selectivelyperformed based on the signals. For example, it may be more energyefficient to avoid providing active illumination when the habitableenvironment is not occupied.

At 406, a control subsystem receives an input, for example at a firsttime. The input may be indicative of any of a number of settings, forinstance settings related to illumination to be provided in an enclosedspace. The input may be received via at least one user actuatable inputdevice located within the enclosed space or at an entrance to theenclosed space. Additionally or alternatively, input may be received viaat least one user actuatable input device located remotely from theenclosed space. For example, located at a reception, concierge, buildingmaintenance or other centralized location associated with the building.

At 408, the control subsystem determines whether the received input isindicative of a selection of a first setting. The first setting may, forexample, be a circadian setting, that is a setting or pattern ofillumination that is consistent with and establishes a natural circadianrhythm or cycle in a human. Such may, for example, mimic the intensityand chromatic makeup of natural sunlight and darkness over a solar dayat some given location on the Earth.

At 410, in response to determining the first input indicates a firstsetting, the control subsystem provide signals to cause at least some ofthe illumination sources to emit artificial illumination at a number oflevels and a number of wavelengths and to cause at least one actuator tocontrol at least a level of natural illumination received into theenclosed space via one or more windows from an external source ofillumination such that a combination of the artificial and the naturalillumination varies over a first period of time according to a firstpattern. The first pattern may, for example be a circadian pattern(e.g., pattern consistent with and which establishes a natural circadianrhythm or cycle in a human).

At 412, the control subsystem determines whether the received input isindicative of a selection of a second setting. The second setting may bea first non-circadian setting, that is any setting or pattern ofillumination other than a setting or pattern of illumination that isconsistent with and establishes a natural circadian rhythm or cycle in ahuman.

At 414, in response to the second input the control subsystem providessignals to cause the illumination sources to emit artificialillumination at a number of levels and a number of wavelengths and tocause at least one actuator to control at least a level of naturalillumination received into the enclosed space via one or more windowsfrom an external source of illumination such that a combination of theartificial and the natural illumination does not vary over a secondperiod of time according to a non-circadian pattern (e.g., any patternother than a pattern consistent with and which establishes a naturalcircadian rhythm or cycle in a human). For example, in response to thesecond input, the control subsystem may provide signals to theillumination sources and the actuator(s) such that the combination ofthe artificial and the natural illumination remains constant over thesecond period of time.

At 416, the control subsystem determines whether the received input isindicative of a selection of a second non-circadian setting that is asleep time setting at a third time.

At 418, in response to the third input the control subsystem providessignals to cause a subset of the illumination sources proximate to afloor in the enclosed space to emit artificial illumination at a lowillumination level along at least one path. The signals may furthercause the at least one actuator to prevent natural illumination frombeing received into the enclosed space via the one or more windows.

At 420, the control subsystem determines whether the received input isindicative of a selection of a travel adjustment setting.

At 422, in response to the fourth input the control subsystem determinesa travel adjustment illumination pattern based at least in part on ageographic location from where an occupant of the enclosed spaceoriginated to accommodate a change in circadian rhythm due to travel bythe occupant. At 424, also in response to the fourth input, the controlsubsystem provides signals to cause the illumination sources to emitartificial illumination at the levels and the wavelengths and to causethe at least one actuator to control at least the level of naturalillumination received into the enclosed space via the one or morewindows such that the combination of the artificial and the naturalillumination achieves the determined travel adjustment illuminationpattern in the enclosed space.

At 426, the control subsystem determines whether the received input isindicative of a selection of a light therapy setting at a fourth time.

At 428, in response to the fourth input indicative of the light setting,providing signals by the control subsystem to cause the illuminationsources to emit artificial illumination at the levels and thewavelengths and to cause the at least one actuator to control at leastthe level of natural illumination received into the enclosed space viathe one or more windows such that the combination of the artificial andthe natural illumination achieves the defined light therapy illuminationpattern in the enclosed space over a therapeutic period of time.

The method 400 may repeat as indicated by arrow 430. Alternatively, themethod 400 may terminate until called again or otherwise restarted.

FIG. 5 shows a low level method 500 of operating one or more componentsof a habitable environment enhancement system to adjust an amount ofnatural light received in the habitable environment usingelectrochromatic panes, according to one illustrated embodiment, whichmay be useful in performing at least a portion of the method 400illustrated in FIG. 4.

At 502, a control subsystem provides signals to control an actuator(e.g., voltage or current supply) drivingly coupled to theelectrochromatic panes to adjust illumination passed thereby. Forexample, the signals may cause the drape(s)/shade(s)/curtain(s)(collectively window coverings) to move to a fully closed position whichcompletely or substantially blocks natural light from entering thehabitable environment 100 or portion thereof via the window(s).Alternatively, the signals may cause the drape(s)/shade(s)/curtain(s) tomove to a fully open position which allows a maximum amount of naturallight to enter the habitable environment 100 or a portion thereof viathe window(s). The signals may cause the drape(s)/shade(s)/curtain(s) tomove to a variety of intermediate positions between the fully closed andfully open positions, which intermediate positions allow respectiveamounts of natural light to enter the habitable environment 100 or aportion thereof via the window(s).

Since the intensity of natural light in the ambient environment variesthroughout the day, and from day to day, control may be based at leastin part to one information from one or more light sensors or detectors.The light sensors or detectors may sensor or detect natural light in theexterior ambient environment and provide the control subsystem withsignals indicative of an intensity or spectral power distributionthereof. Additionally or alternatively, the light sensors or detectorsmay sensor or detect light in the habitable environment 100 or a portionthereof and provide the control subsystem with signals indicative of anintensity thereof.

FIG. 6 shows a low level method 600 of operating one or more componentsof a habitable environment enhancement system to adjust an amount ofnatural light received in the habitable environment using drapes orshades or curtains or other window coverings, according to oneillustrated embodiment, which may be useful in performing at least aportion of the method 400 illustrated in FIG. 4.

At 602, a control subsystem provides signals to control an actuator(e.g., electrical motor, solenoid) drivingly coupled via a transmissionto move drape(s)/shade(s)/curtain(s) relative to a window. For example,the signals may cause the drape(s)/shade(s)/curtain(s) to move to afully closed position which completely or substantially blocks naturallight from entering the habitable environment 100 or a portion thereofvia the window(s). Alternatively, the signals may cause thedrape(s)/shade(s)/curtain(s) to move to a fully open position whichallows a maximum amount of natural light to enter the habitableenvironment 100 or a portion thereof via the window(s). The signals maycause the drape(s)/shade(s)/curtain(s) to move to a variety ofintermediate positions between the fully closed and fully openpositions, which intermediate positions allow respective amounts ofnatural light to enter the habitable environment 100 or a portionthereof via the window(s).

Since the intensity of natural light in the ambient environment variesthroughout the day, and from day to day, control may be based at leastin part on one information from one or more light sensors or detectors.The light sensors or detectors may sensor or detect natural light in theexterior ambient environment and provide the control subsystem withsignals indicative of an intensity thereof. Additionally oralternatively, the light sensors or detectors may sensor or detect lightin the habitable environment 100 or a portion thereof and provide thecontrol subsystem with signals indicative of an intensity thereof.

FIG. 7 shows a low level method 700 of operating one or more componentsof a habitable environment enhancement system for providing heating,ventilation and cooling of a habitable environment 100, according to oneillustrated embodiment, which may be useful in performing at least aportion of the method 300 illustrated in FIG. 3. Typically only a few ofthe acts identified in method 700 will be performed in any single pass.For example, cooling of air is unlikely to be performed if the air hasjust been heated, or dehumidifying is unlikely to be performed inhumidification was just performed. Thus, method 700 provides more of acomprehensive illustration of the acts that may be performed.

The low level method 700 starts at 702. The method 700 may, for examplerun continuously, or may start on a periodic basis, for instance everyfew minutes, hourly, or daily. Alternatively, or additionally, themethod 700 may start on demand, for instance in response to anadjustment of a thermostat, entry into a user input device, or sensed ordetected presence of an occupant in the habitable environment 100 or aportion thereof.

At 704, the control subsystem receives signals from at least one of atemperature or humidity sensor or detector which signals are indicativeof a sensed or detected temperature and/or humidity in habitableenvironment 100 or a portion thereof. The signals may be used in orderto adjust at least one of a temperature and/or humidity of the air inthe habitable environment 100, for example based at least in part on acircadian pattern over a period of time.

At 706, the control subsystem provides signals that cause air to betreated. The signals may, for example, turn ON, turn OFF, and/or adjusta speed of one or more fans or blowers. The signals may additionally oralternatively, adjust a position of a vent, damper, valve or manifold.Such may circulate or otherwise cause air to be treated by filtering viaone or more mechanical (HEPA) air filters. Such may circulate orotherwise cause air to be treated by filtering via one or moreelectrostatic particle air filters, a voltage being supplied accordingto the signals. Such may circulate or otherwise cause air to be treatedby exposure to ultraviolet illumination via an air ultravioletsanitizer.

At 708, the control subsystem provides control signals which cause airto be heated. For example, the control subsystem may provide signals toa heater (e.g., forced air furnace, steam radiator) to heat air. Alsofor example, the control subsystem may provide signals to open, close oradjust an opening of a vent, damper, valve or manifold which routes warmair to the habitable environment 100 or a portion thereof.

At 710, the control subsystem provides control signals which cause airto be cooled. For example, the control subsystem may provide signals toa cooler (e.g., air condition, swamp cooler) to cool (i.e., remove heatfrom) the air. Also for example, the control subsystem may providesignals to open, close or adjust an opening of a vent, damper, valve ormanifold which routes cool air to the habitable environment 100 or aportion thereof.

At 712, the control subsystem provides control signals which cause airto be humidified. For example, the control subsystem may provide signalsto a humidifier to humidify (i.e., add moisture) to the air. Also forexample, the control subsystem may provide signals to open, close oradjust an opening of a vent, damper, valve or manifold which routeshumidified air to the habitable environment 100 or a portion thereof.

At 714, the control subsystem provides control signals which cause airto be dehumidified. For example, the control subsystem may providesignals to a dehumidifier to dehumidify (i.e., remove moisture) from theair. Also for example, the control subsystem may provide signals toopen, close or adjust an opening of a vent, damper, valve or manifoldwhich routes dehumidified air to the habitable environment 100 or aportion thereof.

At 716, the control subsystem opens, closes, or otherwise adjusts one ormore vents or dampers or valves or manifolds. Operation of variousvents, dampers, valves or manifolds may provide fresh air, conditionedair, and/or scents or aromas to the habitable environment 100 or aportion thereof. The vents or dampers or valves or manifolds may beoperated via one or more actuators, for example electric motors orsolenoids, or shape memory alloy actuators, spring loaded actuatorsand/or magnetic actuators.

At 718, the control subsystem provides control signals which cause airto be moved or circulated. For example, the control subsystem mayprovide signals to one or more fans or blowers to move or circulate theair. The signals may turn ON, turn OFF and/or adjust a speed of a fan orblower.

At 720, the control subsystem provides control signals which cause airto be compressed. For example, the control subsystem may provide signalsto one or more compressors to compress air, for instance to removemoisture or as part of removing heat. The signals may turn ON, turn OFF,or otherwise adjust a speed of a compressor.

The low level method 700 may terminate at 722 until called again, or maycontinually repeat. Alternatively, the low level method 700 may runconcurrently with other methods or processes, for example, as one ofmultiple threads on a multi-threaded processor system.

FIG. 8 shows a low level method 800 of operating one or more componentsof a habitable environment enhancement system for introducing scents oraromas into a habitable environment, according to one illustratedembodiment, which may be useful in performing at least a portion of themethod 300 illustrated in FIG. 3.

The low level method 800 starts at 802. The method 800 may, for examplestart on a periodic basis, for instance every few minutes, hourly, ordaily. Alternatively, or additionally, the method 800 may start ondemand, for instance in response to a request by a guest or operator ofa facility (e.g., hotel, spa).

At 804, the control subsystem receives input indicative of a scent to bedispersed in the habitable environment 100 or a portion thereof. Theinput may come from an in room control panel, a remote control panel, ahandheld device (e.g., smart phone, tablet computer, or personal digitalassistant), or may be generated as part of execution of a program by acontrol subsystem.

At 806, the control subsystem provides signals which cause one or morescents to be introduced into air in the habitable environment 100 or aportion thereof. The scent(s) may be delivered from one or morereservoirs. The signals may cause a vent, damper, valve, or manifold toopen, or alternatively close, allow scent to enter the habitableenvironment 100 or a portion thereof. The signals may additionally oralternatively cause one or more fans or blowers to cause the scent(s) tobe delivered in the habitable environment 100 or a portion thereof ordispersed or circulated therein. Additionally or alternatively, thesignals may cause a heater to heat scented material, for instance tovaporize the material to cause the scent to be dispersed into air whichis circulated into the habitable environment 100 or a portion thereof.

The control subsystem may provide the signals to cause the scent(s) tobe introduced according to or based on a defined schedule. Alternativelyor additionally, the control subsystem may provide the signals to causethe scent(s) to be introduced on demand, for example in response to auser input.

The low level method 800 may terminate at 808 until called again, or maycontinually repeat. Alternatively, the low level method 800 may runconcurrently with other methods or processes, for example, as one ofmultiple threads on a multi-threaded processor system.

FIG. 9 shows a low level method 900 of operating one or more componentsof a habitable environment enhancement system for treating water for usein a habitable environment, according to one illustrated embodiment,which may be useful in performing at least a portion of the method 300illustrated in FIG. 3.

The low level method 900 starts at 902. The method 900 may, for examplerun continuously, or may start on a periodic basis, for instance everyfew minutes, hourly, or daily. Alternatively, or additionally, themethod 900 may start on demand, for instance in response to use of waterby an occupant of the habitable environment 100.

At 904, one or more water treatment components of a water supplysubsystem treat a supply of water to a faucet or a showerhead of thehabitable environment 100. Treating water may, for example includefiltering water using one or more sediment or coarse particle filters.Treating water may additionally or alternatively include fine filteringof water, for example, using one or more activated charcoal filters.Treating water may additionally or alternatively include exposing thewater to ultraviolet illumination of sufficient intensity and durationas to sanitize the water.

At 906, one or more water treatment components of the water supplysubsystem introduce vitamin C into at least some of the water. Forexample, one or more valves or manifold may release vitamin C from areservoir of vitamin C into water that is to be supplied to theshowerhead of the habitable environment 100.

The low level method 900 may terminate at 908 until called again, or maycontinually repeat. Alternatively, the low level method 900 may runconcurrently with other methods or processes, for example, as one ofmultiple threads on a multi-threaded processor system.

FIG. 10 shows a low level method 1000 of operating one or morecomponents of a habitable environment enhancement system for adjustingan acoustical aspect of a habitable environment, according to oneillustrated embodiment, which may be useful in performing at least aportion of the method 300 illustrated in FIG. 3.

The method 1000 may, for example start on a periodic basis, for instanceevery few minutes, hourly, or daily. Alternatively, or additionally, themethod 1000 may start on demand, for instance in response to a requestby a guest or operator of a facility (e.g., hotel, spa). Alternativelyor additionally, the method 1000 may start in response to a call orsignal from a program executed by the control subsystem, for instance insynchronization with some other aspect of the environment. For instance,sound may be triggered by an alarm clock setting, which is synchronizedwith light levels and/or spectrum.

In particular, the control subsystem provides signals which cause atleast one speaker to play sound in the enclosed space at a sound levelthat changes in synchronization with a change in a level of illuminationemitted by the illumination sources at 1004.

The low level method 1000 may terminate until called again, or maycontinually repeat. Alternatively, the method 1000 may run concurrentlywith other methods or processes, for example, as one of multiple threadson a multi-threaded processor system.

Modifications

The above description of illustrated embodiments, including what isdescribed in the Abstract, is not intended to be exhaustive or to limitthe embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. Although specificembodiments of and examples are described herein for illustrativepurposes, various equivalent modifications can be made without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as will be recognized bythose skilled in the relevant art. The teachings provided herein of thevarious embodiments can be applied to other systems, not necessarily theexemplary system generally described above.

The control subsystem or some other processor-based system such as apersonal computer, may be programmed to evaluate a “wellness” of a givenspace. The system may assess various amenities provided in theenvironmental space, including type and effectiveness of the amenities.For instance, the system may assign points for particular types ofamenities and/or effectiveness. For example, points may be assigned forhaving an active lighting subsystem, which additional points for activelighting can positively influence circadian patterns. Also for example,points may be assigned for air treatment, with a total number of pointsbased on effectiveness of the air treatment. Also for example, pointsmay be assigned for water treatment, with a total number of points basedon effectiveness of the water treatment. Points may be required in eachpossible category (e.g., lighting, air, water, sound, reduced use of VOCleaching materials, use of sound absorbent or damping materials, use ofmaterials that cushion or absorb shocks to protect the occupant).Alternatively, points may be required for a subset of categories.Additionally, or alternatively, a minimum number of points may berequired in each of a number of categories, or a minimum cumulativescore required to obtain a given rank or wellness rating. Ranks orwellness ratings may be certified and used in advertising. Wellness maybe reassessed from time to time.

Wellness may be assessed based on self-reported scores or scoresassigned by a reviewer or examiner. The scores may be reported viavarious user input devices, for instance a keyboard, keypad, touch panelassociated with a GUI. The scores may, for instance, be entered via aWebpage user interface, and communicated to the system for evaluation.The system may perform comparisons of a given facility from year toyear, or between different facilities. The evaluation may be compared orscored against a defined set of wellness standards in each of a numberof categories or pathways.

Wellness scores need not be dependent on self-reports, but may beinferred from environmental sensors and occupant-based biometrics. Forexample, data gathered passively or actively from devices in the builtenvironment, furniture or other biometric-reading devices, cancontribute to a personal wellness score, that can be used to directly orindirectly control elements in the built environment including lighting,sound, HVAC or other categories previously discussed. Relevantbiometrics may include any health or wellness-related measurements,including but not limited to heart rate, heart-rate variability, sleepphase, sleep length, or respiration rate, walking steps per day, bodyweight, or BMI.

The control system may cause a display of a dashboard which provides aconcise representation of environmental information to occupants of thehabitable environment 100 and/or to personnel of the facility (e.g.,hotel) which houses the habitable environment 100 (e.g., room or suite).The dashboard may additionally present tips, suggestions,questionnaires, suggested settings, interventions, activities,health/wellness educational information, etc. The dashboard may bepresented via a Website or Webpage and/or may be stored “in the cloud”.The dashboard may be accessible via any type of processor-based deviceincluding mobile devices (e.g., smart phones, tablet computers) as aWebpage or a dedicated application. Such devices may include transducersthat act based on the information and/or to control variousenvironmental aspects of the habitable environment via the controlsubsystem. For example, the Webpage or application may communicativelyintegrate the mobile device with the lighting subsystem and/or otherenvironmental systems and controls.

For instance, a habitable environment may include any combination of oneor more of the passive or active components. Some components may residein or be controlled as part of a different subsystem than illustrated.

Also for instance, while various methods and/or algorithms have beendescribed, some or all of those methods and/or algorithms may omit someof the described acts or steps, include additional acts or steps,combine acts or steps, and/or may perform some acts or steps in adifferent order than described. Some of the method or algorithms may beimplemented in software routines. Some of the software routines may becalled from other software routines. Software routines may executesequentially or concurrently, and may employ a multi-threaded approach.

The foregoing detailed description has set forth various embodiments ofthe devices and/or processes via the use of block diagrams, schematics,and examples. Insofar as such block diagrams, schematics, and examplescontain one or more functions and/or operations, it will be understoodby those skilled in the art that each function and/or operation withinsuch block diagrams, flowcharts, or examples can be implemented,individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software,firmware, or virtually any combination thereof. In one embodiment, thepresent subject matter may be implemented via Application SpecificIntegrated Circuits (ASICs) or programmable gate arrays or programmablelogic circuits (PLCs). However, those skilled in the art will recognizethat the embodiments disclosed herein, in whole or in part, can beequivalently implemented in standard integrated circuits, as one or morecomputer programs running on one or more computers (e.g., as one or moreprograms running on one or more computer systems), as one or moreprograms running on one or more controllers (e.g., microcontrollers) asone or more programs running on one or more processors (e.g.,microprocessors), as firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof,and that designing the circuitry and/or writing the code for thesoftware and or firmware would be well within the skill of one ofordinary skill in the art in light of this disclosure.

In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that themechanisms taught herein are capable of being distributed as a programproduct in a variety of forms, and that an illustrative embodimentapplies equally regardless of the particular type of signal bearingmedia used to actually carry out the distribution. Examples ofnontransitory signal bearing media include, but are not limited to, thefollowing: recordable type media such as portable disks and memory, harddisk drives, CD/DVD ROMs, digital tape, computer memory, and othernon-transitory computer-readable storage media.

U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/694,125, filed Aug. 28,2012 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/012,444, filed Aug. 28,2013 are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The variousembodiments described above can be combined to provide furtherembodiments. Aspects of the embodiments can be modified, if necessary ordesirable to provide yet further embodiments.

These and other changes can be made to the embodiments in light of theabove-detailed description. In general, in the following claims, theterms used should not be construed to limit the claims to the specificembodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims, but should beconstrued to include all possible embodiments along with the full scopeof equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Accordingly, theclaims are not limited by the disclosure.

1-38. (canceled)
 39. A method for evaluating wellness of a habitablespace, the method comprising the steps of: receiving wellnessinformation by at least one processor regarding a plurality of amenitiesassociated with a habitable space; assessing the plurality of amenitiesand assigning a point value to each of the plurality of amenities based,at least in part, on the received wellness information; and determininga wellness rating for the habitable space based, at least in part, on acombination of the point values assigned to each of the plurality ofamenities.
 40. The method of claim 39, further comprising: receivingdata associated with at least one of the plurality of amenities from oneor more sensors associated with the pluralities of amenities; anddisplaying the wellness rating via an input/output subsystem.
 41. Themethod of claim 39, wherein the wellness rating is obtained for a firsttime period and the method further comprising: comparing the wellnessrating for the habitable space to a second wellness rating.
 42. Themethod of claim 41, wherein the second wellness rating is obtained forthe habitable space for a second time period.
 43. The method of claim41, wherein the second wellness rating is obtained for a secondhabitable space.
 44. The method of claim 41, further comprising: sendinga signal indicative of a comparison between the wellness ranking for thehabitable space and the second wellness rating.
 45. The method of claim39, wherein at least one of the plurality of amenities is related to atleast one of: an active lighting subsystem associated with the habitablespace; an air treatment subsystem associated with the habitable space;and a water treatment subsystem associated with the habitable space. 46.The method of claim 45, wherein a point value associated with at leastone of the active lighting subsystem, the air treatment subsystem, orthe water treatment subsystem associated with the habitable space isbased at least in part on at least one of: a type of the lighting;effectiveness of the lighting; effectiveness of the air treatmentsubsystem; a type of the air treatment subsystem; an ability of the airtreatment subsystem to reduce VOCs in the habitable space; effectivenessof the water treatment subsystem; and a type of the water treatmentsubsystem.
 47. The method of claim 39, further comprising: comparing thewellness rating for the habitable space to a defined set of wellnessstandards.
 48. The method of claim 39, further comprising at least oneof the following: displaying information regarding the wellness ratingand at least one of the plurality of amenities; displaying informationregarding the wellness rating and the habitable environment; displayinginformation regarding the wellness rating and at least one occupant ofthe habitable environment; sending a signal indicative of the wellnessrating and at least one of the plurality of amenities; sending a signalindicative of the wellness rating and the habitable environment; sendinga signal indicative of the wellness rating and at least one occupant ofthe habitable environment; sending a signal indicative of anintervention associated with the habitable environment; and sending asignal indicative of a change to an environmental setting for thehabitable environment.
 49. The method of claim 39, further comprising:identifying an occupant of the habitable environment, via one or moreenvironment sensors.
 50. The method of claim 39, further comprising:receiving updated wellness information by the at least one processor;reassessing the wellness rating associated with the habitableenvironment; and updating the wellness rating via the at least oneprocessor.
 51. The method of claim 39, wherein receiving informationregarding a plurality of amenities associated with a habitable spaceincludes at least one of: receiving information from a sensor locatedwithin the habitable space; receiving information from an input/outputsubsystem; and receiving information from a biometric reading devicewithin the habitable space.
 52. A system for determining a wellnessrating for a habitable space, comprising: at least one nontransitoryprocessor-readable medium communicatively coupled to at least oneprocessor and which stores at least one of instructions or dataexecutable by the at least one processor and a plurality of activesubsystems operable to determine a wellness rating for a habitable spaceby, at least in part: receiving wellness information by the at least oneprocessor regarding a plurality of amenities associated with thehabitable space; assessing the plurality of amenities and assigning apoint value to each of the plurality of amenities; and determining awellness rating for the habitable space based, at least in part, on acombination of the point values assigned to each of the plurality ofamenities.
 53. A method for evaluating wellness of a habitable space,comprising the steps of: identifying a plurality of amenities associatedwith a habitable space; assigning a point value to each of the pluralityof amenities, wherein a point value associated with a particular amenityis assigned based on at least one of a type and an effectiveness of theparticular amenity; and determining a wellness rating for the habitablespace based, at least in part, on a combination of the point valuesassigned to each of the plurality of amenities.
 54. A method forevaluating wellness of a habitable space, comprising the steps of:determining a plurality of wellness categories for a habitable space;determining a point value for each of the plurality of wellnesscategories; and determining a wellness rating for the habitable spacebased, at least in part, on the point values for the plurality ofwellness categories.
 55. The method of claim 54, further comprising atleast one of the following: determining a minimum wellness rating;determining a minimum point value for each of the plurality of wellnesscategories; and determining if each point value meets a minimumrequirement.
 56. The method of claim 54, wherein determining a wellnessrating for the habitable space based, at least in part, on the pointvalues for the plurality of wellness categories, only occurs if eachpoint value meets a minimum requirement.
 57. The method of claim 54,further comprising at least one of: identifying at least one amenity inthe habitable space for each of the plurality of wellness categories;and identifying an individual associated with the habitable space. 58.The method of claim 57, further comprising at least one of: sendingwellness rating information to an electronic user device of theindividual associated with the habitable space; sending amenity pointvalue information to an electronic user device of the individualassociated with the habitable space; sending amenity point valueinformation to a device associated with the habitable space; and sendingdata indicative of the point values for the plurality of wellnesscategories to a device associated with the habitable space.
 59. A methodfor establishing a wellness rating for a habitable space, comprising thesteps of: determining a point value for each of a plurality of wellnesscategories associated with a habitable space and a wellness ranking forthe habitable space; and determining the wellness rating for thehabitable space based, at least in part, on the point values for theplurality of wellness categories for the habitable space.
 60. A methodfor evaluating wellness of a habitable space, comprising the steps of:identifying a plurality of wellness categories associated with awellness ranking; identifying at least one amenity for a habitable spacefor each of the plurality of wellness categories; determining a scorefor each identified amenity; and determining the wellness ranking forthe habitable space based, at least in part, on the scores for theidentified amenities.
 61. The method of claim 60, wherein a score for anamenity is based, at least in part, on at least one of: an effectivenessof the amenity; an availability of the amenity in the habitable space;and data generated by a sensor in the habitable space and associatedwith the amenity.
 62. The method of claim 60, wherein a minimum score isrequired for an identified amenity before the wellness ranking isdetermined.
 63. The method of claim 60, wherein a minimum total score isrequired before the wellness ranking is determined.
 64. A method forevaluating wellness a habitable space, comprising the steps of:receiving wellness information regarding a plurality of amenitiesassociated with a habitable space, wherein the plurality of amenitiesrelate to at least two of the following, lighting within the habitablespace, air quality within the habitable space, use of VOC leachingmaterials within the habitable space, use of sound dampening materialswithin the habitable space, and water quality within the habitablespace; assigning a point value to each of the plurality of amenities;determining a wellness rating for the habitable space based, at least inpart, on a combination of the point values assigned to each of theplurality of amenities; and sending data indicative of the wellnessrating.